Organization for Autism Research (OAR) is a national charity located in Arlington, Virginia. Parent founded and led, OAR set out to use applied science to answer questions that parents, families, autistic individuals, teachers, and caregivers confront daily. No other autism organization has this singular focus. RUN FOR AUTISM is Organization for Autism Research’s (OAR) signature fundraising program. Whether you walk your local 5K, or compete in a full marathon, you can dedicate your miles to life changing autism research.
Originally finding out about OAR through a Master’s Degree Program Project, Greg Smith found an organization whose mission directly affected him and his family. As Greg learned more about the mission of OAR, he decided to immediately get involved volunteering his time and fundraising. Through the years Greg has continued his support of OAR through his role as a board member and has been an active member of the RUN FOR AUTISM team ever since its inception at the Marine Corps Marathon in 2003.As an avid runner Greg has not only proudly worn our colors as he races the Marine Corps Marathon 10K, where for multiple years he has finished top three in his age group, he has also consistently been a top fundraiser. Since 2009 Greg has raised over $70,000 for OAR. This year Greg will wear his RUN FOR AUTISM gear for a new challenge, the virtual MCM50K.
When asked why he runs for OAR his answer is honest and simple – “I run because I believe in its mission. Being a part of RUN FOR AUTISM has provided me and my family a highly visible example of the sacrifices people make to support our mission. I find that very motivating and enjoyable.”
Join the RUN FOR AUTISM team today and start dedicating your miles to autism research.
Related Articles
2024 Mission ready lunch
2024 Mission ready lunch Become Mission Ready for your MCM Weekend event on Saturday, October 26 at 12:30 p.m. hosted at the Gaylord National Resort. Participants and their families are invited to join MCMO for a delicious pre-event meal that will have anyone fueled up for Sunday morning. Previously known as the MCM Dining In, […]
Seeded Runner Program
The Marine Corps Marathon Organization will once again be offering a Seeded Runner option for the Marine Corps Marathon. This year, we are also bringing the option to the Marine Corps Historic Half. As a seeded runner, you will receive access to exclusive baggage with proximity to the start line, dedicated portable toilets, special access […]
2024 Team Competition
Do you have a group of friends, classmates, service members or more that all run? The affiliated-based Teams competition returns to the Marine Corps Historic Half and the 49th Marine Corps Marathon (MCM). Gather your squad and get ready to take on the mission. Here is how it works: Teams are made up of four […]