In Ventura County, Aut2Run is more than a race, it’s a moment where the entire community comes together in support of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

Hosted annually by the Autism Society Ventura County, Aut2Run offers multiple ways to participate, including a 15K, 10K, 5K, a 1-mile walk/run, a virtual option, and the event’s most meaningful highlight, the Fun K.

The Fun K is the heart of Aut2Run.

Designed for children 12 and under and individuals with special needs, this race shifts the focus away from competition and onto celebration. As participants line up, the energy changes. The entire crowd gathers along the course. Families, friends, runners, volunteers. They form a tunnel of cheers and encouragement. Every participant is celebrated as they run, walk, or make their way to the finish line.

For many families, it’s the most emotional and memorable part of the day.

It’s a space where kids who may not always feel comfortable in traditional settings are met with pure joy and support. There’s no pressure, just a community showing up to celebrate them exactly as they are.

While the Fun K may be the highlight, the rest of the day is just as thoughtfully designed. Early in the morning, many families kick off their experience with pancakes served by the Kiwanis Club of Thousand Oaks & Camarillo, a tradition that has become a staple of the event. Coffee from Starbucks, another longtime supporter, helps fuel runners and volunteers alike as the day gets underway.

Families with younger children, or those who simply want a more relaxed pace, often spend time in the event’s inclusive Kid Zone. This space is intentionally designed so all children can play and explore in a way that feels comfortable and engaging. Activities include a tractor-pulled wagon ride, sensory bins, bubbles, an inflatable obstacle course, and more. It’s a place where kids can just be kids, with no pressure and plenty of room for joy.

Throughout the event, participants can explore what has become the largest Autism Resource Fair in Ventura County. Dozens of local organizations and service providers come together to share information, offer support, and connect with families. For parents navigating therapies, education plans, or services, this resource fair can be just as impactful as the race itself.

Aut2Run is made possible by a strong network of community sponsors who are committed to inclusion and support for the autism community. Major sponsors like Dole, the Port of Hueneme, and Tri-Counties Regional Center play a key role in bringing the event to life, alongside local partners and volunteers who return year after year.

Proceeds from the event directly benefit the Autism Society Ventura County (ASVC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism and their families. Through support groups, social programs, educational workshops, and advocacy, ASVC provides essential resources that many local families rely on throughout the year.

For families raising children with autism, finding spaces that feel truly inclusive can be rare. Aut2Run helps change that. It creates an environment where sensory needs are understood, differences are embraced, and families don’t have to explain themselves, they’re simply welcomed.

But what truly makes Aut2Run special isn’t just the races, the sponsors, or even the resources, it’s the feeling.

It’s the sound of cheers echoing during the Fun K.
 It’s the sight of children playing freely in the Kid Zone.
 It’s the connection between families who understand each other without needing to explain.

Aut2Run is a reminder that inclusion isn’t just something we talk about, it’s something we build together, one step at a time.

Want to get involved? You can go to https://www.aut2run.org/ to sign up and create a team to fundraise and run. Not really into running but want to support the event? Our very own Macaroni KID Camarillo Assistant, Shayla has an Aut2Run Team every year. You can donate to support her team's fundraising efforts by clicking here: https://www.aut2run.org/teamdaven

When visiting events and local businesses, be sure to tell them Macaroni KID sent you... and don't forget to tell all your friends!