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First-Ever Halloween Fun Run for Autism to Take Place Sunday at Shops at Atlas Park

Oct. 25, 2018  By Laura Hanrahan

Costumed runners will take to the streets of Glendale this Sunday for the first-ever Halloween “Fun” Run or Walk 4 Autism.

The 3-kilometer race will start and end at The Shops at Atlas Park, and is hosted by Play4Autism, a Glendale-based non-profit organization providing programs for kids on the spectrum.

The event is set to kick off at 11 a.m., where participants will run or walk to trick-or-treat stations spread out along the route, collecting goodies as they go.

There will also be a scavenger hunt throughout the course, with even more candy and gift cards for the kids to find. Organizers are expecting over 100 runners and walkers. After crossing the finish line, the fun will continue with a photo booth, raffles, a live DJ, a costume contest and food concessions.

There will also be a “Trunk or Treat” car show where the cars will be decorated in the Halloween spirit, each set up with a candy or game station for the kids.

“We were trying to think of something that would be different and fun for the community that would spread awareness and inclusion for kids on the spectrum,” said Greg Vasicek, president and founder of Play4Autism. “It’s going to be fun.”

Entry fees are $15 for adults, $10 for children or $40 for a family, if bought online in advance. On the day of the event, entry fees will be $25 for adults, $15 for children and $60 for a family.

All proceeds will go towards Play4Autsim’s “Kidz into Action” programs aimed at providing social opportunities for children with autism through sports.

Play4Autism hosts a bowling club, martial arts club, gymnastics club and track club, among others.

Vasicek says the organization is also raising money to open their own recreation center to run the programs out of.

“We’re getting there,” he said. “Hopefully in the next couple years.”

Note: The event was originally scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 27, but was moved to Sunday due to inclement weather.

The Shops at Atlas Park. (Google Maps)

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