Different Not Less - Autism Inclusion 5k
- Date Sat 18th April 2026
- Time 9:00AM EDT
- Location Charleston, West Virginia
- Price $28.50
- Races 1 race
- Distances 5km
Event summary
Get ready for an inspiring day of community, awareness, and fun at the 2nd Annual Different Not Less Autism Inclusion 5K, taking place on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston, West Virginia! Kicking off at 9:00 AM, this inclusive event invites participants of all ages and abilities to walk, run, roll, or stroll their way through a vibrant course filled with engaging sensory elements such as giant bubbles that will delight everyone. It's a fantastic opportunity to set personal bests while celebrating the unique perspectives of individuals on the autism spectrum.
This year's event is not just about racing; it’s a heartfelt initiative aimed at raising awareness and fostering community support for families affected by autism. Co-chaired by passionate advocates Beth Moore and Amanda Lewis, the Different Not Less 5K supports Community Autism Resources & Education Systems (CARES), a nonprofit dedicated to providing essential services and education in West Virginia. With awards for the top finishers across various age categories and opportunities to engage with local heroes like the Charleston Dirty Birds, this event promises to be a joyous occasion filled with laughter and camaraderie. Don't forget, early packet pickup will be on April 17 from 5:30
This year's event is not just about racing; it’s a heartfelt initiative aimed at raising awareness and fostering community support for families affected by autism. Co-chaired by passionate advocates Beth Moore and Amanda Lewis, the Different Not Less 5K supports Community Autism Resources & Education Systems (CARES), a nonprofit dedicated to providing essential services and education in West Virginia. With awards for the top finishers across various age categories and opportunities to engage with local heroes like the Charleston Dirty Birds, this event promises to be a joyous occasion filled with laughter and camaraderie. Don't forget, early packet pickup will be on April 17 from 5:30
Organiser's Description
Join us for the 2nd Annual Different Not Less Autism Inclusion 5K* on April 18th at 9:00 AM at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston, WV!
This unique event offers something for everyone. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or looking to enjoy a memorable morning with family, our course welcomes participants of all abilities and experiences. Competitive runners will appreciate professional chip timing, while participants of all ages can take in the joyful atmosphere and engaging sensory elements along the route, including mesmerizing giant bubbles at the turnaround point. Walk, run, roll, or stroll - participate in whatever way feels right for you. Every journey across the finish line is worth celebrating.
This event is more than just a run. It's an opportunity to raise awareness, build community, and support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. The race was born from the passion of two remarkable women, Beth Moore and Amanda Lewis, who have personal connections to autism.
Beth's autism diagnosis as an adult brought clarity to her life, helping her understand her past struggles and embrace her unique perspective. She's passionate about helping others feel seen, valued, and included. Amanda's journey as a mother to Wyatt, who was diagnosed with autism at age two, has been filled with both challenges and victories. Her unwavering advocacy has helped Wyatt thrive, and now she's channeling her determination into this event.
Together, they're co-chairing this event to benefit Community Autism Resources & Education Systems (CARES), a local nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to evidence-based services while providing education, advocacy, and community outreach to empower West Virginia children on the autism spectrum and their families.
Early Packet pickup is on April 17th at GoMart Ballpark from 5:30 - 7:30 pm during CARES' Neon Night event. Come collect your packet and see for yourself the difference your participation is making! While Bibs and Chips will be assigned morning of the 5k April 18th (8:00am-8:50am)
Take a step into the CARES world and watch the joy on a child's face as they play with the Charleston Dirty Birds players, jump on bounce houses, dance in black lights with friends, while knowing that you are helping make it all possible!
Join us as we run, walk, or roll to show support for our autism community and make a real difference!
PARKING: Available in the garage at 99 Laidley St
T-SHIRTS: Register by March 31st to be guaranteed a T-Shirt
AWARDS: The top 3 male & female finishers in the following categories will receive medals: 20 and under, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69 and 70+
EARLY PACKET PICKUP: Friday 4/17 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Go Mart Park (601 Morris St, Charleston, WV 25301)
This unique event offers something for everyone. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or looking to enjoy a memorable morning with family, our course welcomes participants of all abilities and experiences. Competitive runners will appreciate professional chip timing, while participants of all ages can take in the joyful atmosphere and engaging sensory elements along the route, including mesmerizing giant bubbles at the turnaround point. Walk, run, roll, or stroll - participate in whatever way feels right for you. Every journey across the finish line is worth celebrating.
This event is more than just a run. It's an opportunity to raise awareness, build community, and support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. The race was born from the passion of two remarkable women, Beth Moore and Amanda Lewis, who have personal connections to autism.
Beth's autism diagnosis as an adult brought clarity to her life, helping her understand her past struggles and embrace her unique perspective. She's passionate about helping others feel seen, valued, and included. Amanda's journey as a mother to Wyatt, who was diagnosed with autism at age two, has been filled with both challenges and victories. Her unwavering advocacy has helped Wyatt thrive, and now she's channeling her determination into this event.
Together, they're co-chairing this event to benefit Community Autism Resources & Education Systems (CARES), a local nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to evidence-based services while providing education, advocacy, and community outreach to empower West Virginia children on the autism spectrum and their families.
Early Packet pickup is on April 17th at GoMart Ballpark from 5:30 - 7:30 pm during CARES' Neon Night event. Come collect your packet and see for yourself the difference your participation is making! While Bibs and Chips will be assigned morning of the 5k April 18th (8:00am-8:50am)
Take a step into the CARES world and watch the joy on a child's face as they play with the Charleston Dirty Birds players, jump on bounce houses, dance in black lights with friends, while knowing that you are helping make it all possible!
Join us as we run, walk, or roll to show support for our autism community and make a real difference!
PARKING: Available in the garage at 99 Laidley St
T-SHIRTS: Register by March 31st to be guaranteed a T-Shirt
AWARDS: The top 3 male & female finishers in the following categories will receive medals: 20 and under, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69 and 70+
EARLY PACKET PICKUP: Friday 4/17 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Go Mart Park (601 Morris St, Charleston, WV 25301)
Races
-
Different Not Less 5k Walk & Run
Incl. $3.50 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 18th April 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$28.50
20 and under 20-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60-69 70+
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Haddad Riverfront Park, 600 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, 25301, WV, United States
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Different Not Less - Autism Inclusion 5k
