Team Member Spotlight: William Isola

November 12, 2018

William Isola first learned about OAR at races he was participating in. He quickly became aware of the work and research OAR conducts and wanted to be a part of it.

William joined the RUN FOR AUTISM team in November 2017 to run in honor of his son, William Jack, who is on the spectrum. Even though he had his own entry into the 2017 New York City Marathon, William began fundraising for OAR. He then continued to fundraise for the Lake Placid Ironman that he conquered on July 22, 2018 raising a total of $11,035. William returned to the streets of New York City this year to run for OAR raising an additional $4,960. He also spoke at the NYC Runner’s Recognition Dinner giving the team inspiration for race day. In the one year William has been fundraising for OAR, he’s raised a total of $15,995!

William’s personal mission is to “help raise awareness, acceptance and funds for those whose lives and families are directly impacted by autism.” With many autism charities to choose from, William picked OAR because of their focus on using research to help identify ways to improve the everyday lives of those impacted by autism. Other than participating in races, William hopes to volunteer and help the RUN FOR AUTISM Staff at future events.

When asked what being part of the RUN FOR AUTISM team has meant to William and his family, William said “it’s a meaningful way for our family to come together in support of Autism research. Together we have attended races and events, and raised money for the cause. It has also has given us a platform to raise awareness and acceptance of autism. We started a social media campaign, #OneinaWilliam, to celebrate William and to share the joy he brings and impact he has on our lives and those who know him. We want to help people understand that “one size does not fit all” when it comes to autism. Everyone is different — we face different challenges, celebrate different successes and work to achieve different milestones. But we do share a common goal of helping people see the amazing things our kids are capable of accomplishing. OAR has given us a way to share our experiences with more people, to inspire them, motivate them to be more accepting and to change the way they may think or perceive autism and those who are living it.”