Press release

Raleigh, NC – On Saturday, September 29th, the Autism Society of North Carolina will hold its 7th annual WNC Run/Walk for Autism. Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to participate in this event, which takes place at UNC-Asheville. The 5K race will begin close to Highsmith Union Building at 9:00 am and will circle through the campus and local greenway system.

The WNC Run/Walk for Autism includes the Diamond Brand Outdoors competitive and non-competitive 5K Race, a 1K Fun Run/Walk, and a Kids' Dash. Much more than a race, the event also features information booths, autism-related vendors, organized play activities, snacks, and raffle and door prizes. The run is part of the Michelob Ultra Grand Prix series of races, sponsored by the Asheville Track Club.

Proceeds from this event support the services provided by the Autism Society of North Carolina in Western North Carolina. Some of the programs that will benefit from the run include:
Blue Ridge Bags & More, a small business that employs individuals with autism,
The Sara Handlin Crisis Fund, which helps families in crisis, and
Supported Living Homes for adults affected by autism.
The Autism Society of North Carolina hopes to raise $40,000 to support Western North Carolina families. To register, join a team, form a team, volunteer, or donate, please visit http://www.wncrunwalkforautism.org or call 828-236-1547.

Background:

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Recent studies estimate that up to 1 of every 70 children born in North Carolina will be affected by autism.

For over forty years, the Autism Society of North Carolina has worked to address areas of need and expand services for the autism community in our state. ASNC is a statewide nonprofit organization that provides advocacy, training, and services to directly improve the lives of individuals and families affected by autism.

Additional information about Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Autism Society of North Carolina is available by calling 1-800-442-2762 or visiting http://www.autismsociety-nc.org.