Every Step Counts

Each year, the Autism Society of Howard County’s Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run brings together those touched by Autism and members of the wider community in a supportive, energizing, and fun environment. This year’s event on October 7, 2023 at 9:00am continues that tradition, featuring a 5K run and a 4K walk around Centennial Lake in Ellicott City, MD, with the option of a more mellow 1K stroll. Attendees can take in the family-friendly Event Village that includes inflatables, entertainment byroving circus performers, bubble and balloon artists, and costumed characters! Registration is now open and includes virtual and non-binary options plus great prizes for top teams and runners. All proceeds benefit the Autism Society, now serving communities in and around Howard, Montgomery and Anne Arundel Counties.

Together, We Can Make a Difference! The collective goal is to raise $160,000 toward programs and services for a local Autism community that is 8,000+ strong! Funds raise help the Autism Society provide FREE information and resources, support, advocacy, social events, and educational opportunities. For over 30 years, the Autism Society of Howard County has served Autistic individuals, their families, and community members, providing over 250 programs and 1,500 hours of support in 2022 alone. Sponsors and community supporters will be recognized on-site and via social media, putting participants at the center of the action as the event unfolds.

For nearly 30 years, the Autism Society of Maryland has served Autistic individuals, their families, and the 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 36 births by the Centers fo rDisease Control (CDC). The overall rate in Maryland is 1 in 43 and Howard County has the highest incidence ofAutism per capita in the state owing to the quality of its educational system, support services, and accepting community.

Now more than ever, #EveryStepCounts 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 or contact the event coordinators at 410-290-3466 or info@howard-autism.org. #AutismStrongMD #EveryStepCounts