Each year, the Autism Society of Maryland's EVERY STEP COUNTS AUTISM WALK & 5K RUNbrings together those touched by Autism and members of the broader community in a supportive, energizing, fun environment. Join us! Together we are #AutismStrongMD. The goal is to raise $120,000 toward programs and services for the local Autism community that is _MORE THAN 8,000 STRONG!_

5K RUN, 4K WALK OR 1K STROLL

There are many ways for you and your family and friends to participate this year! Kids under the age of 11 can walk or run for FREE but registration is required to receive a t-shirt. CLICK TO LEARN MORE [https://runsignup.com/Race/EveryStepCountsAutismWalk5K/Page-3]

* TIMED 5K RUN around Centennial Lake with awards for male, female and nonbinary finishers
* 4K WALK around Centennial Lake
* 1K STROLL for those seeking a shorter walk distance

BECOME A FUNDRAISER

In addition to participating as a runner or walker, we invite participants to become fundraisers to help us reach our goal of $120,000. Here are some fundraising tips:

* ASK FOR DONATIONS invite family, friends, neighbors and co-workers to support you
* BUILD A TEAM Invite family, friends, neighbors and co-workers to run or walk with you and ask them to reach out to their networks
* SHARE YOUR FUNDRAISER AND/OR TEAM URLS in social media posts and in your e-mail signature
* SET UP AN INTEGRATED FACEBOOK FUNDRAISER to effortlessly reach your supporters
* BUILD SOME FRIENDLY COMPETITION with other participants to encourage spirit, team-building and fundraising capacity

EVENT VILLAGE

The Every Step Counts event village will be back better than ever. Be sure to arrive early to visit with our event SPONSORS [https://runsignup.com/Race/Sponsors/MD/EllicottCity/EveryStepCountsAutismWalk5K] and vendors. Bring the kids! Take in the family-friendly fare that will include inflatables, entertainment by roving circus performers, bubble and balloon artists, and costumed characters. Fill your tank with tasty refreshments. Get up to date on your vaccines by visiting the mobile clinic hosted by Giant Food Pharmacy. Event highlights at Centennial Park on October 4 will be shared on social media to put participants and spectators, regardless of their location, in the center of the action as the event unfolds.

BECOME A SPONSOR

Leading up to the event, SPONSORS AND COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS [https://runsignup.com/Race/Sponsors/MD/EllicottCity/EveryStepCountsAutismWalk5K] will be recognized on the event website, on social media and in promotional materials. On-site at the event, sponsors and other supporters will be featured on signage and in event highlights posted to social media. Visit the SPONSOR PAGE [https://runsignup.com/Race/EveryStepCountsAutismWalk5K/Page-19] to learn more.

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER

We look forward to welcoming back our volunteers. We're offering all of the traditional volunteer tasks associated with an in-person foot race. Sign-up is easy. Visit the Every Step Counts VOLUNTEER PAGE [https://runsignup.com/Race/Volunteer/MD/EllicottCity/EveryStepCountsAutismWalk5K] to select a task and sign up online. Or click HERE [https://runsignup.com/Race/EveryStepCountsAutismWalk5K/Page-8] to download a Volunteer Application.

TOGETHER, WECANMAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Since 1993, the Autism Society of Maryland (AUSOM) has served Autistic individuals of all ages, their families, and the community. In October 2023, AUSOM officially expanded its service area to include Montgomery and Anne Arundel counties. We're excited for this opportunity to connect with more members of the Maryland Autism community.

The Centers for Disease Control estimates Autism prevalence in the U.S. at 1 in 31 births, up from 1 in 36 reported in 2023. In Maryland, Autism prevalence in 2023 was 1 in 43 births (1 in 27 for boys and 1 in 116 for girls). These estimates are derived from studies of 8-year-olds in 11 communities across the country, including one in Maryland. This increase in Autism prevalence can be attributed to a variety of factors, including more widespread diagnostic screening, and underscores the ongoing need for equitable supports and services in the Autism community.

The Autism Society promotes Autism acceptance. Acceptance values the dignity and uniqueness of each Autistic person and opens the door to explore life's infinite possibilities. The Autism Society supports community members of all ages by helping them connect with the resources they need when they need them. We continue to address the needs of the growing Autism community with information and referral services, Special Education resources and consultations, and social and support opportunities for individuals and families. Our advocacy efforts center around improving the quality of, and access to, Autism-related services, as well as local, state, and national resources.

Now, more than ever, #EveryStepCounts. With your support, AUSOM can continue to provide critical services, raise awareness, acceptance, inclusion and educate the public about the complexities of Autism. Thank you!

#AUTISMSTRONGMD #EVERYSTEPCOUNTS

Questions? Contact the event coordinators at 410-290-3466 or [email protected].

PLEASE NOTE: _To ensure the health and safety of all participants, AUSOM reserves the right to convert, at any time, the Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run into an all-virtual event._