In Memory, In Motion: Supporting Autism Research

Hi everyone,

This December, I’ll be running the Honolulu Marathon—not just for the joy and peace running brings me, but for something much bigger. For the first time, I’m dedicating my miles to a cause that means a great deal to me: the Organization for Autism Research (OAR).

OAR is an amazing nonprofit that supports families and individuals affected by autism through research, educational resources, and practical tools. Their mission is to use science to address the everyday challenges of autism, helping families navigate with knowledge, care, and support.

This year has been incredibly difficult for my family. My older brother’s son—my sweet nephew—was born with a rare neurological disorder called complete agenesis of the corpus callosum. He passed away in March of this year and his impact was immeasurable. Running this marathon in support of children and families facing unique challenges feels like a small way I can give back, in his memory.

Every donation, big or small, will go directly to OAR to fund programs that empower children with autism and their families.

Please help me support by making a contribution to my fundraiser and sharing this page with your family and friends. Every dollar I raise will advance Organization for Autism Research's great cause!

WHY RUN FOR AUTISM?

1 in 31 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism. By joining the RUN FOR AUTISM team, you’re supporting OAR’s mission to fund research and resources that help people with autism and their families today.

Here are some of the ways that OAR uses the funds raised by the RUN FOR AUTISM team:

$10 provides a Curriculum in a Box professional development set to general education teachers.

$25 provides 15 copies of A Guide to Safety to families and first responders.

$100 provides the Kit for Kids peer education resource to an entire elementary or middle school.

$150 provides 100 copies of a Life Journey through Autism guidebook sent to a community support group or military installation.

$1,000 provides a research grant for a graduate student studying autism.

$3,000 provides a scholarship for a student with autism to attend college.

$50,000 fully underwrites an applied research pilot study.

With all my gratitude, Aneli