Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run

🏃‍♀️ Event Overview

Each year, the Autism Society of Maryland's (AUSOM's) Every Step Counts Autism Walk &: 5K Run brings together individuals and families touched by Autism and the broader community for a day of connection, compassion and celebration.

📅 Event Date and Theme

This year, on Saturday, October 4, 2025, we are proud to continue this tradition with a 5K Run, 4K Walk or 1K Stroll – all set in a SUPERHERO-themed atmosphere! Guests will enjoy family-friendly fun including inflatables, roving performers, bubble and balloon artists and costumed characters. It’s a day of joy and unity, with strong support from local sponsors, elected officials and community partners.

💰 Fundraising and Participation Goals

Join us! Together we are #AutismStrongMD. The goal is to raise $100,000 toward programs and services for the local Autism community that is more than 15,000 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.

🏃 Run/Walk Details

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: Help us reach our goal of $100,000

🤝 Fundraising Tips

In addition to participating as a runner or walker, we invite participants to become fundraisers:

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

🎪 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 includes 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.

🏷️ Become a Sponsor

Leading up to the event, sponsors and community supporters will be recognized on the event website, on social media and in promotional materials. Visit the Sponsor page to learn more.

🙌 Volunteer Opportunities

We look forward to welcoming back our volunteers. 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.

🌟 Our Mission

Since 1993, the Autism Society of Maryland (AUSOM) has served Autistic individuals of all ages, their families, and the community. Our advocacy efforts center around improving the quality and access to Autism-related services. 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.

❓ Contact Us

Questions? Contact the event coordinators at 410-290-3466 or info@autismsocietymd.org. Now, more than ever, #EveryStepCounts. With your support, AUSOM can continue to provide critical services and educate the public about the complexities of Autism. Thank you!

🔗 More Information

For further details, please visit our race page: 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.