Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run

Event Overview

The Autism Society of Maryland (AUSOM) celebrates 20 years of hosting the Every Step Counts Autism Walk &: 5K Run. Every Step Counts brings together individuals and families touched by Autism and the broader community for a day of connection, compassion and celebration.

Date and Theme

On Saturday, October 3, 2026, we are excited to bring back the SUPERHERO theme for our 5K Run, 4K Walk or 1K Stroll! Guests will enjoy family-friendly fun including an inflatable obstacle course, roving performers, face painters, bubble artists and costumed characters. It’s a day of joy and unity, with strong support from local sponsors, elected officials and community partners.

Fundraising Goals

Join us! Together we are #AutismStrongMD. The goal is to raise $120,000 toward programs and services for the local Autism community that is more than 18,000 strong! Funds raised will directly support AUSOM’s free programs and services – including support groups, education, advocacy, social events, and advocacy – offered throughout the year.

Participation Options

5K Run, 4K Walk or 1K Stroll

• Timed 5K Run: around Centennial Lake with awards for male, female and nonbinary finishers
• 4K Walk: around Centennial Lake
• 1K Stroll: for those seeking a shorter walk distance
• Become a Fundraiser: join our fundraising efforts

Fundraising Tips

• Ask for Donations: invite family, friends, neighbors and co-workers to support you
• Build a Team: invite family, friends, neighbors and co-workers to run or walk with you and ask them to reach out to their networks
• Share your Fundraiser: promote your URLs in social media posts and your e-mail signature
• Set up a Facebook fundraiser: effortlessly reach your supporters

Event Village

The Every Step Counts event village will be back better than ever. Be sure to arrive early to visit our Resource Fair featuring event sponsors and vendors. Bring the kids! Take in the family-friendly fare that will include inflatables, entertainment by roving performers, bubble and balloon artists, and costumed characters. Fill your tank with tasty refreshments. Get up to date on your vaccines by visiting the mobile clinic hosted by Giant Food Pharmacy.

Sponsor Recognition

Leading up to the event, sponsors and community supporters will be recognized on the event website, on social media and in promotional materials. On-site at the event, sponsors and other supporters will be featured on signage and in event highlights posted to social media. Visit the Sponsor page to learn more.

Volunteer Opportunities

We look forward to welcoming back our volunteers. We're offering all of the traditional volunteer tasks associated with an in-person foot race. Sign-up is easy. Visit the Every Step Counts Volunteer page to select a task and sign up online. Or click HERE to download a Volunteer Application.

Community Impact

Together, We Can Make a Difference! Since 1993, the Autism Society of Maryland (AUSOM) has served Autistic individuals of all ages, their families, and the community. In October 2023, AUSOM officially expanded its service area to include Montgomery and Anne Arundel counties. We’re excited for this opportunity to connect with more members of the Maryland Autism community.

Understanding Autism

AUSOM promotes Autism acceptance and values the dignity and uniqueness of each Autistic person, helping them connect with the resources they need. We continue to address the needs of the growing Autism community with information and referral services, Special Education resources and consultations, and social and support opportunities for individuals and families.

Join Us

With Autism diagnosis rising to 1 in 31 nationally and 1 in 38 in Maryland, our mission is more urgent than ever. Help us ensure that #EveryStepCounts. With your support, we can continue to build a more connected, empowered and inclusive community. Thank you!

Event Details

Questions? Contact the event coordinators at 410-290-3466 or info@autismsocietymd.org.

Event URL: Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run

PLEASE NOTE: To ensure the health and safety of all participants, AUSOM reserves the right to convert, at any time, the Every Step Counts Autism Walk &: 5K Run into an all-virtual event.