Dear John,

For two decades, the Autism Speaks 5K in in Potomac, MD, has brought together tens of thousands of runners and walkers to raise millions of dollars to support the autism community. This year, in order to keep our participants, volunteers and staff safe due to the ongoing pandemic, we’re taking this historic event from our neighborhood to nationwide by going virtual!

Join us by running or walking the Autism Speaks Virtual 5K on Saturday, July 4, wherever you are, to show your support for people with autism. Your fundraising efforts will empower our work to promote solutions for the needs of people with autism and their families – including providing for those in urgent need of resources right now – and will support our continued commitment to create a kinder, more inclusive world.

And what’s a race without some great swag? By signing up for the Autism Speaks Virtual 5K, you will receive this Running on Kindness t-shirt and puzzle piece medal featuring  a spectrum of colors signifying the diversity of perspectives and experiences of people with autism.

Whether you’re jogging around your neighborhood, walking on a treadmill in your home or taking a stroll in your local park, our community will be virtually united as runners and walkers all sweating for the same cause.

We hope to see you (virtually) on race day!

Thank you for your support.

Susan Pereles
Co-Founder, Autism Speaks 5K