Welcome!
Inclusion is about offering the same activities to everyone, while providing support and services to accommodate people’s differences. Inclusive organizations actively reach out to people with disabilities and seek to understand and appreciate their differences, while fostering a sense of belonging. Welcome to Different Not Less Autism Inclusion Walk/Run benefiting CARES
Meet your hosts: Beth and Amanda are the co-chairs of the upcoming “Different Not Less” 5k benefiting CARES. Both have personal connections to autism and are committed to raising awareness and fostering inclusion for the autism community. Beth and Amanda have decided to give funds raised from the event to CARES, partnering with CARES to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with autism and their families.
Beth shares how her autism diagnosis as an adult helped her make sense of her life, “My autism diagnosis made my entire life make sense. It validated my childhood struggles, for example, and made me feel more at peace with myself, ” she says. Beth acknowledges how isolating autism can be, so for her, this event is an opportunity to help others on the autism spectrum feel seen, valued, and included.
Amanda’s journey as a mother to Wyatt, who was diagnosed with autism at age two, has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. She recalls how his early signs, like hand-flapping, led to the realization that he likely had autism. After aging out of his Birth-to-3 program and facing discrimination in his daycare, Amanda fought tirelessly for Wyatt’s rights, including advocating for daycare options and ensuring he received the support he needed. Today, Wyatt is thriving in ABA therapy, and Amanda continues advocating for his future. “I will never stop fighting for his rights, ” she says.
Together, Beth and Amanda are co-hosting this event to raise awareness and create a more inclusive world for people on the autism spectrum. “We want to make the world a little more inviting for everyone, ” says Beth. We are so grateful to be working alongside such wonderful, passionate, and dedicated individuals for this event.
Join us in supporting this important cause and helping to create a world where everyone belongs!
April 19th 2025 9:00am-11:00AM
Haddad Park 601 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25301
Did you know? According to the CDC, as of 2023, autism affects an estimated 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States today. Many of whom experience mental health issues. By stepping up and walking/running or even just donating to our cause, you will be helping initiate positive change so those on the autism spectrum feel accepted and understood.
Studies suggest that walking benefits both physical health and emotional wellbeing, and this year, we want you to Walk for autism YOUR way.
Whether you choose to walk, run or donate the funds you raise will help support Autistic West Virginians and their families at all life stages.
Go solo, or get your friends, family and colleagues on board and step it out together in a team. The choice is yours!