Celebrating Inclusion: Join Us for AZA United’s 5th Annual Run for Autism!

A Community Coming Together for Disability Awareness Month

March is a meaningful time for Arizona Autism United (AZA United). As we celebrate Disability Awareness Month, we’re also gearing up for one of our most cherished annual traditions—the 5th Annual Run for Autism, happening Sunday, March 8th at 8:30 AM at Kiwanis Park in Tempe. This event is so much more than a run. It’s a moment each year when our community unites to honor individuals with disabilities, celebrate their strengths, and champion greater inclusion across Arizona. And this year feels especially significant.

Honoring 20 Years of Serving Arizona’s Autism Community

2026 marks AZA United’s 20th anniversary—two decades of providing compassionate, evidence‑based support for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. Since 2006, our mission has remained steadfast: help as many families as possible. The Run for Autism reflects that mission beautifully. It’s a joyful, high‑energy celebration of community, awareness, and acceptance—open to everyone and designed to include everyone.

Run, Walk, or Join Virtually—There’s a Way for Everyone to Participate

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just coming to enjoy the festivities, there’s something for everyone:

• 5K Run/Walk
• 1 Mile Family Fun Run
• Kids Dash
• Mascot Race
• Virtual Run option for anyone who wants to participate from afar

No matter how you join, you’ll experience a morning filled with celebration, connection, and inclusive activities for all ages and abilities.

Event Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss

This year’s lineup is packed with memorable moments:

• Live performance by viral sensation Joe Giacinto, a blind, autistic, self‑taught clarinetist, will perform the National Anthem—an inspiring start to the event
• Miss Adriana Reyes will also be showing her singing and violing playing talents as part of the entertainment
• DJ Shurley returns! Fresh off energizing our Spectrum of Dreams event, DJ Shurley will keep the morning lively with upbeat music
• Complimentary donuts from TDP Bakery
• Pose N' Freeze, a family‑friendly photo booth, perfect for capturing team spirit and group photos!
• Warm up & strech session by Mikey's League
• Exhibitors, lawn games & activities, enjoy an inclusive festival atmosphere designed for all ages and abilities

Event Schedule

8:00 AM – Check-in; exhibitors, activities & entertainment
8:40 AM – Stretch & warmup
8:50 AM – Opening remarks; head to the start line
9:00 AM – 5K begins
9:15 AM – 1 Mile begins
10:00 AM – Awards Ceremony
10:30 AM – Event concludes

Gratitude for Our Community Partners

Events like the Run for Autism are powered by the generosity of our supporters. We extend special appreciation to our Platinum Sponsor, Design Works Gaming, whose partnership helps strengthen Arizona families all year long. As well as Mercy Care as Silver Sponsor and Core Chiropractic as a Supporting Sponsor! We are also grateful to our Outreach Partners: Encircle Families and Mikey's League.

Why This Event Matters

The Run for Autism is more than a race—it’s a celebration of community, understanding, and inclusion. During Disability Awareness Month, this event becomes a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we uplift every individual and ensure they feel respected, supported, and valued.

 Register at https://azaunited.org/events/runforautism or by clicking the button below.

For questions, contact us at Events@AZAunited.org