Run a 5K, Raise Money for Autism This Weekend

The Howard County Autism Society will host their eighth annual 5K run and walk on Saturday, Nov. 15, to raise money for autism.

The One Step Closer Autism Walk & 5K will take place from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Ellicott City’s Centennial Park located at 10000 Maryland Route108. The fundraising event will include a timed 5K run, an un-timed 5K walk and a much shorter walk.

For young children and others not participating in the walk or 5K, there will be face painting, moon bounces, horses from the Howard County Police Department’s Mounted Division and a complimentary continental breakfast.

In past years, proceeds from the 5K run and walk have made up roughly 25 percent of the Howard County Autism Society’s annual budget, which goes to its programs that help individuals on the autistic spectrum secure educational opportunities and participate within their communities.

Online pre-registration for this event closes on Nov. 11, but registration will still be available on race day.

For the 5K race, runners aged 16 and over can pre-register for $35, and register onsite for $45, while those 15 and under can pre-register for $20 and register onsite for $30.

Registration for the walk costs $30 before Nov. 11 and $35 on race day for participants 16 and over. Walkers 15 and under can pre-register for $15 and register on race day for $20.

For questions about this event or other programs from the Howard County Autism Society, contact the society’s Executive Director Judy Grusso by emailing judy.grusso@howard-autism.org.

Race Day Schedule:

• 9:00: Registration/Check-in, Complimentary Breakfast
• 9:40: Welcome and introductions
• 10:00: Start for the 5K timed race
• 10:05: Start for the Walkers
• 11:15: Awards and Thank You

Photo courtesy of the Howard County Autism Society

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