Skip to Content

September 1st, 2019

A group of runners darting from the start line at the Autism SpectRUN event.

Join The Kennedy Center at the starting line of empowerment for the annual Autism SpectRUN on Sunday, Sept. 8 at Jennings Beach in Fairfield.

This family-friendly-event features a timed 5K at 9 a.m., open to all runners, walkers and strollers.  A kids’ 100-yard dash and a kids’ ¼ mile run precede the main event.

SpectRUN directly benefits The Kennedy Center’s autism services, which provide a lifespan of support for individuals and families in Fairfield and New Haven Counties. Fundraising keeps services accessible by subsidizing program costs and providing need-based scholarships.

“Each year, the SpectRUN brings community together to build grassroots support for life-changing services,” said Kennedy Center President and CEO Rick Sebastian. “The teams and individuals who fundraise and join us on race day are truly making an impact on the lives of children and adults with ASD.”

This year’s event will also ‘raise the bar’ for autism services by supporting program expansion, according to Sebastian.

“Our transition and employment services are growing to meet new demand and we’re creating additional opportunities for individuals with ASD to be connected members of our communities,” said Sebastian. “The Kennedy Center is also launching comprehensive supports for families who may struggle in finding the best options for their children.”

This year’s SpectRUN will feature several activities for kids of all ages and needs, including Casey Carl’s Bubblemania, face painting and music by Star 99.9. 

Star 99.9’s Anna Zap, of The Anna & Raven Show, will be the featured announcer of the morning event.

Prizes will be awarded for Most Colorful child, adult & team, Most Dollars Raised - individual and team, and for the timed race - Male & Female Champions plus Top Finishers in 8 age groups.

Online registration is open now at KC-Autism.org!

Single registration is $30 online and $35 the day of the event. Kids, ages 18-6, can sign up for $15 online and $20 on event day. Kids 5 and under are free with a parent or guardian.  Registration discounts are available to sponsors who wish to form teams.

The 2019 SpectRUN sponsors include: Star 99.9, Jeff Dworken & Family, The Horton Family, The Andres Family, Pillar to Post Home Inspectors, The Blanco Family, The Macauda Family, The Evensen Family and Pediatric Healthcare Associates.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Vice President of Development Jo Ann McMullan at 203-365-8522 ext. 2049 or [email protected]. Learn more about our Autism programs at KC-Autism.org!