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.

🎉 Ceremony Details

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:

• Inflatable Obstacle Course: A fun challenge for all ages.
• Roving Performers: A lively atmosphere with engaging acts.
• Face Painters: Make memories with colorful designs.
• Bubble Artists: Enjoy enchanting bubble displays.

💰 Fundraising Goal

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: Providing emotional assistance.
• Education: Offering vital information for families.
• Advocacy: Championing the needs of the community.
• Social Events: Creating spaces for connection.

🏃‍♂️ Participation Options

There are many ways for you and your family and friends to participate this year! Kids 10 and under can walk or run for FREE but registration is required to receive a t-shirt. CLICK to learn more

• Timed 5K Run: Around Centennial Lake with awards for male, female and nonbinary finishers.
• 4K Walk: A scenic walk for everyone.
• 1K Stroll: Ideal for those seeking a shorter distance.
• Become a Fundraiser: Help raise funds for the cause.

🤝 Fundraising Tips

In addition to participating as a runner or walker, we invite participants to become fundraisers to help us reach our goal of $120,000. Here are some fundraising tips:

• Ask for Donations: Invite family, friends, neighbors and co-workers to support you.
• Build a Team: Run or walk with others and encourage them to reach out to their networks.
• Share your URLs: Promote your fundraiser/team in social media posts.
• Set up a Facebook Fundraiser: Effortlessly reach your supporters online.

🎪 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. Highlights include:

• Inflatables: Enjoyes for kids of all ages.
• Entertainment: From roving performers, bubble and balloon artists, to costumed characters.
• Tasty Refreshments: Fill your tank with delectable treats.
• Mobile Clinic: Get up to date on your vaccines by visiting the Giant Food Pharmacy.

🌟 Sponsorship Opportunities

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 supporters will be featured on signage and in event highlights posted to social media. Visit the Sponsor page to learn more.

👥 Volunteer Information

We look forward to welcoming back our volunteers. We're offering traditional volunteer tasks for the 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 Commitment

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. We continue to:

• Promote Autism Acceptance: Valuing the dignity and uniqueness of each Autistic person.
• Provide Resources: Helping community members connect with needed resources.
• Advocate for Services: Improving access to Autism-related services.
• Build Connections: Fostering an empowered and inclusive community.

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!

📞 Contact Us

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

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.

🌐 More Information

For additional details, visit the race page at Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run.