Oakland University's Center for Autism Research, Education and Support (OUCARES) has teamed with local non-profit Homes for Autism to host a 5k run, 5k walk and 10k run on the campus of Oakland University on May 17, 2009 to raise awareness and support of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and help improve the quality of life for individuals affected by an ASD.
Autism is a neurological disorder that impairs communication and social skills, which according to the Autism Society of America affects as many as 1.5 million American adults and children. ASD includes several developmental disorders that affect the way an individual sees and relates to the rest of the world. Though the symptoms of ASD vary widely in severity, they can include impairment of social interaction, fixation on inanimate objects, the inability to communicate in traditional ways and resistance to changes in daily routine.
At OUCARES individuals are empowered to communicate with others and about themselves through unique and fun interactive classes, social clubs, and recreational and learning programs. Homes for Autism focuses its mission on the question, “What happens to children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder when they grow up?” While nearly all of the funds currently allocated to autism either support research or services for children, these children will eventually grow up and possibly outgrow or outlive their families’ caretaking abilities. Homes for Autism’s name instantly conveys their commitment and mission to provide housing for adults with ASD.
Join us on May 17, 2009 to Run for Autism and ensure OUCARES and Homes for Autism can continue providing services to individual and families dealing with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
For more information on sponsoring, participating or volunteering in the Run for Autism, visit therunforautism.org. Register soon! Participants who register early get a t-shirt to commemorate their support and participation in the Run for Autism.
To learn more about the two local organizations the run benefits, visit www.oakland.edu/oucares and www.homesforautism.org.