OARacle Newsletter

Five-hundred and fifty virtual and in-person participants took on the annual Active for Autism 5K and Kids Dash to support autism research during Autism Acceptance Month. Participants hailed from 19 states, as well as Washington, D.C., and ranged in age from 1 to 78. They raised over $60,000 to support new OAR research and programs.

“The 8th annual Active for Autism 5K & Kids Dash was a huge success…It’s been so exciting to see this fitness and fundraising event grow every year to help fund research and promote autism acceptance in our community. We’re already looking forward to another great event next year,” RUN FOR AUTISM Director Sarah Culver said. “Thank you to all the participants, sponsors, volunteers, and donors for helping to make this great event a success every year.”

In-person participants gathered for the race in Alexandria, Va. on April 19. The rain held off until the last Kids Dash participant crossed the finish line, and everyone had fun with the face painting and tattoo station, enjoyed coffee and treats from the Arkibuna Coffee Truck, and learned more about OAR and event sponsors. A KultureCity sensory tent provided a quiet moment to recharge. The event concluded with a raffle drawing, the presentation of awards, and the Kids Dash.

OAR is grateful to everyone who helped make this event a success. Special shoutouts go to Marai Kazmi and Noelle Lewis, our top individual fundraisers, and Team Rafeh, which raised over $4,975 as the highest fundraising team.

Pictures and full results are available on the event page.

If you are excited about joining us for the 2027 Active for Autism 5K & Kids Dash, sign up on the interest list, and we’ll email you when registration opens for next year’s race. We can’t wait to see you there!