The Uprising 5K and 1.31 Mile Walk for Autism

Uprising 5K & 1.31-Mile Walk for Autism Run. Walk. Celebrate. Empower.

Join us for the 2026 Uprising 5K & Walk for Autism — a high-energy, community-driven event supporting inclusive fitness and wellness programs for individuals with autism and intellectual & developmental disabilities.

This year, we’re expanding beyond the finish line. After the race, we’re planning a community celebration at Everhart Park featuring music, food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly activities (pending final approval). Our goal is to create a space where participants, families, and supporters can connect, celebrate, and continue building an inclusive community.

Event Schedule Race Morning 7:30 AM – Logistics team arrival & course setup 8:00 AM – Registration opens; vendors & sponsors set up

Program 9:00 AM – Opening Ceremony

Welcome & EmpowerU mission moment Sponsor recognition Safety briefing 9:15 AM – 5K Run Start 9:25 AM – 1.36-Mile Walk Start

10:00 AM – Community Activities Open (pending approval)

Vendor village Kids activities Music & engagement 10:45 AM – Awards & Recognition 11:30 AM – Race event close & breakdown

Everhart Park Community Celebration (pending approval) 10:45 AM – 3:00 PM

Live music Food trucks Family activities Community vendors Why We Run Every step supports EmpowerU Specialty Fitness and our mission to provide inclusive fitness, wellness, and social connection opportunities for individuals of all abilities. Your participation helps expand programs, remove barriers, and empower athletes to live healthier, more independent lives.

Who Should Participate? Runners of all levels Families & children Walkers & community supporters Inclusive teams & organizations Whether you’re racing for a PR or strolling with friends, this event is about community, inclusion, and impact.

How to Register for the Uprising 5K & 1.31 Mile Walk for Autism Ready to join us on April 18? Follow these simple steps to register and start fundraising:

Step 1: Click “Register” Start by clicking the registration link in our bio.

Step 2: Enter Personal Information Fill in your basic details so we can get you set up for race day.

Step 3: Choose Your Event Select the event you’ll participate in:

5K Run 1.31 Mile Walk (symbolizing the 1 in 31 individuals diagnosed with autism) Step 4: Review and Sign the Waiver Confirm your details and complete the waiver to finalize your registration.

Step 5: Select Your T-Shirt Size Choose your race shirt size — included with registration.

Fundraising Page: Team or Individual After registering, you’ll be taken to the fundraising page where you can choose how you want to participate.

Join or Start a Team Note: The first option you see is for an individual fundraiser. If you want to join or create a team, be sure to scroll down and click “Team Fundraiser.”

From there you can:

Search for an existing team to join Create your own team Invite friends, family, and coworkers Prefer to Fundraise Solo? Select Individual Fundraiser and make an impact on your own.