Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run

Each year, the Howard County Autism Society’s (HCAS’) Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run brings together those touched by autism and members of the wider community in a supportive, energizing, fun environment. The event has traditionally featured a 5K run and a 4K walk around Centennial Lake in Ellicott City, MD. This year however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be reimagined as a hybrid event with on-site and virtual event options. Participants may elect to walk or run at Centennial Park on October 3rd OR participate virtually at a time and location of their choosing. Registration opens July 30, 2020.

HCAS is excited to partner with the Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake (ASBC) to bring the 2020 Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run to life. The collective goal is to raise $75,000 toward programs and services for a local autism community that is more than 5,000 strong!

New this year will be a Kick-Off Event on August 30th , a festive Car Parade & Packet Pick-Up through the HCAS parking lot, featuring a DJ, sponsor giveaways, costumed characters, drone photos, and prizes for the best decorated vehicles…all from the comfort and safety of your car!

A Facebook LIVE Event will be streamed from Centennial Park on October 3rd putting participants in the center of the action as the event unfolds with live coverage, a fitness warm up and yoga cool down, as well as pre-recorded messages from the autism community, local VIPs, sponsors and other community supporters. Every Step Counts LIVE! will wrap up the day’s events with an evening awards ceremony and dance party.

Together, We Can Make a Difference! For over 27 years, the Howard County Autism Society has served individuals with autism, their families, and community by providing information, support, and advocacy; promoting awareness of autism that values the dignity and uniqueness of each individual; and working to improve the quality of and access to services and to educational opportunities. Nationally the prevalence of autism is estimated at 1 in 54 births by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The overall rate in Maryland is about 1 in 52–one of the highest in the country-and Howard County has the highest incidence of autism per capita in the state owing to the quality of its educational system, support services and accepting community.

Now more than ever, #Every Step Counts so that we can continue to provide critical services, raise awareness, and educate the public about the complexities of autism.

To register, donate, sponsor, volunteer or learn more, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/MD/EllicottCity/EveryStepCountsAutismWalk5K