Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville will host the 16th Annual Breakthrough Run/Walk for Autism on April 30. The race will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the Regal Cinemas Pinnacle Stadium 18, 11240 Parkside Drive in Turkey Creek.
The run, held each April during National Autism Acceptance Month, supports Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide services that enable adults with autism to lead purposeful lives.
Individuals, teams, and those with intellectual and developmental disabilities are invited to participate in either the 5K run or a one-mile fun walk. Community, corporate and school teams are welcome, and many teams are organized in support of an individual on the autism spectrum. Race registration is $25 for adults and $15 for students through April 19. Late registration, after April 19 and in person from 7-7:30 a.m. race day, is $30.
If you can’t make it out to the race or running isn’t really your thing, there is a sleeping but supporting option on the website for $25. Donations are always accepted, and it’s an easy way to show your support without having to leave the comfort of your home.
Looking to volunteer? There are positions still available for registration volunteers, Breakthrough Buddy volunteers, and course monitors. Registration and course monitor volunteers arrive at 7 a.m. and finish at 9 a.m. Breakthrough Buddy volunteers will walk or run the 5K or one-mile fun run with a Breakthrough Buddy and arrive at 7:30 a.m.
Any individual with a disability may register to run or walk as a Breakthrough Buddy. A Buddy may request to participate with a volunteer, who will run or walk the course with the Buddy. Breakthrough Buddies receive special recognition during the award ceremony.
Autism spectrum disorder, a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, is estimated to affect more than 2,000 individuals of all ages in Knox County.
Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville provides a variety of services, therapeutic and otherwise, including community living, independent living, employment services, respite & recreation, and much more.
Sign up today to improve the lives of adults with autism! Proceeds go to Autism Breakthrough of Knoxville in support of its mission.
To register: https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Knoxville/BreakthroughRunforAutism. For more information: https://breakthroughknoxville.org/
