Different Not Less - Autism Inclusion 5k

🏃‍♂️ Event Overview

Join us for the Inaugural Different Not Less Autism Inclusion 5K on April 19th at 9:00 AM at Haddad Riverfront Park in Charleston, WV!

• Date: April 19th
• Time: 9:00 AM
• Location: Haddad Riverfront Park, Charleston, WV
• Race Link: Different Not Less 5K

🎉 Event Features

This unique event offers something for everyone. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or looking to enjoy a memorable morning with family, our course welcomes participants of all abilities and experiences.

• Timing: Competitive runners will appreciate professional timing.
• Fun Elements: Enjoy engaging sensory elements along the route, including mesmerizing giant bubbles at the turnaround point.
• Participation: Walk, run, roll, or stroll - participate in whatever way feels right for you.
• Celebration: Every journey across the finish line is worth celebrating.

❤️ Community Impact

This event is more than just a run - it's an opportunity to raise awareness, build community, and support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

• Founders: The race was born from the passion of two remarkable women, Beth Moore and Amanda Lewis.
• Mission: They co-chair this event to benefit Community Autism Resources & Education Systems (CARES).
• Goals: CARES aims to increase access to evidence-based services while providing education and advocacy.
• Local Support: Help empower West Virginia children on the autism spectrum and their families.

📦 Packet Pickup

Packet pickup is on April 18th at GoMart Ballpark from 6:30 - 8:30 PM during CARES' Neon Night event. Come collect your packet and see for yourself the difference your participation is making!

• Event: CARES Neon Night
• Date: April 18th
• Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
• Location: GoMart Ballpark

😊 Experience the Joy

Take a step into the CARES world and watch the joy on a child's face as they play with the Charleston Dirty Birds players, jump on bounce houses, dance in black lights with friends, while knowing that you are helping make it all possible!

🚗 Additional Information

• Parking: Available in the garage at 99 Laidley St.
• T-Shirts: Register by April 1st to be guaranteed a T-Shirt.
• Awards: The top 3 male & female finishers in the following categories will receive medals: 17 & Under, 18 to 34, 35 to 49, 50 to 64, 65+
• Early Packet Pickup: Friday 4/18 from 6:30 to 7:30 PM at Go Mart Park (601 Morris St, Charleston, WV 25301)

👟 Join Us!

Join us as we run, walk, or roll to show support for our autism community and make a real difference!