2024 Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run

October 5, 2024 – 9am to Noon

Centennial Park in Ellicott City, MD

Benefiting the Autism Society of Maryland

REGISTER . SPONSOR . DONATE . VOLUNTEER

Each year, the Autism Society of Maryland’s (AUSOM’s) Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run brings together those touched by Autism and members of the wider community in a supportive, energizing, and fun environment. This year’s event continues that tradition, featuring a 5K run and a 4K walk around Centennial Park in Ellicott City, MD, with the option of a more mellow 1K stroll. The event’s Title Sponsor is Pete Pappas & Sons and Olvia Dance of Fox 45 Baltimore returns as our emcee! All proceeds benefit the Autism Society, now serving communities in and around Howard, Montgomery, and Anne Arundel Counties.

Attendees can take in the family-friendly Event Village that includes inflatables, entertainment by roving performers, bubble and balloon artists, and costumed characters! Kids under 11 run or walk for free (registration required)! The 5K offers senior and non-binary categories plus great prizes for top teams and runners. Sponsors and community supporters will be recognized on-site and via social media as the event unfolds.

Together, We Can Make a Difference! The collective goal is to raise $120,000 toward programs and services for a local Autism community! Funds help provide FREE information, resources, support, advocacy, social events, and educational opportunities. The Autism Society of Maryland has served over 8,000 Autistic individuals, their families, and community members, responding to 1000+ requests for information, referral, and special education guidance in 2023 alone. Additionally, we held over 100 Support Group Meetings and Social & Fitness events at NO COST to the community!

For over 30 years, AUSOM has served Autistic individuals, their families, and the community by providing information, support, and advocacy; promoting awareness of Autism that values the dignity and uniqueness of each individual; and working to improve access to quality services and educational opportunities. Nationally the prevalence of Autism is estimated at 1 in 36 births by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The rate in Maryland is 1 in 43.

Now more than ever, #EveryStepCounts so that we can continue to provide critical services, raise awareness, and educate the public about the complexities of Autism. CLICK to register, donate, sponsor, volunteer, or learn more, visit or contact the event coordinators at 410-290-3466 or info@autismsocietymd.org #AutismStrongMD #EveryStepCounts

JOIN US! Sign up to participate in one of the events: the timed 5K run, 4K walk or 1K stroll. Register early to get your shirt size. Build your team with members of all ages.

Build a team! Harness the giving power of your family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and online network. Set up a Personal Fundraiser, Team Fundraiser and Facebook Fundraiser. Share the links and ask your network for their support. Fundraising couldn’t be easier.

Become a sponsor! As a sponsor, you will enjoy the benefits of social media exposure, visibility on our event website, signage at the event, complimentary registrations for your team members, and the opportunity to introduce yourselves to the Autism community at the event.

VOLUNTEER! We need you – individuals, families, companies, groups – to help make this event a success! Sign up to volunteer for your choice of a task and time to support this event.

Can’t join us for the event? Make a donation to support your favorite team, runner or walker. Or make a general gift to the Autism Society of Maryland.

Together we are #AutismStrongMD. Questions? Contact the event coordinators at 410-290-3466 or info@autismsocietymd.org.