General Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I get started?
- What is the minimum fundraising requirement?
- I want to RUN FOR AUTISM but can't participate in any of the events on your schedule. Are there other options?
- What is a Runners' Kit?
- What size shirt should I order?
- A donor gave me a check/cash. What should I do?
- I can't run in this year's marathon anymore! Can I get my money back?
How do I get started?
Go to our main RUN FOR AUTISM page and browse through our Events Schedule. You may be able to register for some races at the present, however other races might not be open just yet. If you notify one of our RUN FOR AUTISM staff members, we can be sure to help you register when the time comes.
If you don't find a race that fits your abilities or interests, you can choose to participate in our iRUN FOR AUTISM program. See FAQ #3 for more details.
Once you have registered, you personalize your fundraising page on firstgiving.com that allows for easy, online fundraising. For some fundraising tips to get started, click HERE. In addition, our staff will add you to the RUN FOR AUTISM listserve through which we provide information on training, fundraising and your upcoming race.
Throughout your training, the RUN FOR AUTISM staff offers continual support, both over the phone and through online communication. And of course, our staff attempts to attend as many events as possible to cheer on RUN FOR AUTISM team members like yourself.
What is the minimum fundraising requirement?
For most events, we encourage our runners to "Set and Meet" their own goals. OAR runners typically raise an average of $1,000 to $1,500.
In order to receive the OAR Runner's Kit, which includes a RUN FOR AUTISM t-shirt, specially designed racing shirt and training and fundraising materials, runners must raise at least $50.00.
Six select races may have fundraising requirements, depending on how you register. These six races are (Click on the race name for details):
Chicago Marathon, NYC Half Marathon, Marine Corps Marathon, Houston Marathon, National Marathon, Pittsburgh Marathon, and the Historic Half Marathon and Semper Fred 5K.
I want to RUN FOR AUTISM but can't participate in any of the events on your schedule. Are there other options?
Participation is not limited to events on our schedule or to running in general. Run, walk, bike, hike, climb a mountain or participate in any other type of event and dedicate your efforts to autism research. From a hometown 5K to an international triathlon, the choice of date and location is up to you. Visit the iRUN FOR AUTISM webpage to sign up for any running event, TRI FOR AUTISM webpage for any triathlon event.
What is a Runner's Kit?
The Runner's Kit includes an OAR RUN FOR AUTISM team t-shirt, distinctive race shirt, OAR Newsletter and other informational items.
Runners will receive their Runner's Kit once they reach the $50.00 fundraising mark.
What size shirt should I order?
Shirts are available in men's sizes only. We suggest females order one size smaller than they would wear in a women's t-shirt.
T-Shirts are available in Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large, and XXL. Race shirts are available in Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large, and XXL.
A donor gave me a check/cash. What should I do?
Please have all check donations made out to “Organization for Autism Research” or simply “OAR.” After collecting a check or checks, send them to the OAR Office at:
Organization for Autism Research
2000 North 14th Street Suite 710
Arlington, VA 22201
Be sure to include your name, the event you are participating in, so we can credit the amount to your fundraising total. You should also ensure that the donor's name and address is included so that OAR can send them a thank you letter that also serves as a receipt for tax purposes. Timely submission of any offline donations will ensure your donors receive these items as quickly as possible.
If someone donates to you by check or cash, please update the offline donation total on your Firstgiving webpage on your own. Click here to learn how!
I can't run in this year's marathon anymore. Can I get my money back?
For most races, OAR is unable to provide refunds for any reason, and race entries are non-transferable. However, we are able to transfer your current fundraising to another race.
EXCEPTION: The Marine Corps Marathon does allow runners to transfer their entries from the marathon to the 10K race. Runners are also able to defer their entries until the next year's race if necessary.
Please contact one of our RUN FOR AUTISM staff members for more information.
Have more questions? Contact one of our RUN FOR AUTISM staff at run@researchautism.org.
To sign up, visit www.firstgiving.com/OAR or review our Events Schedule.
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