Autism Connection Fundraiser – Autism Connection of Pennsylvania

Autism Safety Expo 2025

PRESS RELEASE: THURSDAY, JULY 10, 2025

Autism Connection of Pennsylvania Presents Inaugural Safety Expo in Concert with the Jefferson Center for Autism and Neurodiversity

Monroeville, PA: Autism Connection of Pennsylvania, in concert with the Jefferson Center for Autism and Neurodiversity in Philadelphia, is proud to announce its first-ever Autism Safety Expo; a comprehensive two-day event devoted to promoting safety in the home and the community for people of all ages and stages on the autism spectrum and their families.

Autism Connection of Pennsylvania’s Safety Expo is important because it brings together critical resources that help ensure the well-being of autistic people in nearly every aspect of life, from their homes to schools to public spaces. Many families and self-advocates struggle to navigate complex systems when it comes to legal rights, medical needs, emergency preparedness, and physical and social safety. This Expo offers a rare opportunity to access all of that information in one place, with trusted experts who understand the unique challenges faced by the autism community. By creating a safe, inclusive space for learning and connection, the event empowers individuals and families to proactively build safer, more supportive environments.

Dates & Location

Friday, October 17, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Monroeville Volunteer Fire Company #4
- 4370 Northern Pike, Monroeville, PA 15146

Expo Highlights and Resources

This “one-stop-shop” experience invites families, caregivers, autistic people, professionals, and community members to access vital safety solutions covering:

Legal Safety: Guardianship, special education law, rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and access to legal aid organizations.
Medical Safety: Including sensory-friendly best practices, medical ID tools, emergency-preparedness plans, and how to navigate healthcare settings comfortably
Community and Social Safety: Safe travel, public‐space accessibility, social-skills training, and resources on self-advocacy and community inclusion.
Technology and Adaptive Tools: Exhibitors showcasing assistive tech, safety-alert devices, home-monitoring systems, and calming sensory aids.
First Responders Engagement: In person discussions with fire, police, and EMS personnel to build understanding of autism-friendly response protocols.
Caregiving & Family Support: Peer support groups, respite resources, and guidance from social-service agencies.

Why Safety Matters

Autism Connection of Pennsylvania surveyed autistic people, families, and caregivers about their greatest concerns. Safety is the utmost priority for people of all ages living in both rural and urban areas, and with different levels of need. In response, the Autism Connection is organizing this event to connect people with critical resources.

Safety is multidimensional: legal, medical, social, and environmental. By bringing together experts from each domain, the Autism Safety Expo offers resources to autistic people and families to proactively build environments, knowledge, and community systems that support neurodiverse safety.

About Autism Connection of PA
Since 1996, Autism Connection of PA has served as a trusted resource for families and professionals across the state, offering support groups, educational workshops and webinars, advocacy, and information on art, justice, school, and lifelong planning.

About Jefferson Center for Autism and Neurodiversity
A division of Jefferson Health, the Center champions neurodiverse-aware design and clinical practices, highlighted by its sensory-inclusive Honickman Center in Philadelphia’s city center.

The official registration and financial information of Autism Connection of PA may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

2025 Pittsburgh Marathon Run for a Reason

Autism Connection of Pennsylvania is a charitable partner for the 2025 Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon, Run for a Reason!

There are 10 different events during Marathon weekend, and we hope you’ll choose Autism Connection of Pennsylvania as your charity!

How it Works in 5 Steps:

Step 1: Choose Your Event
Select one of 10 events, including the marathon, half marathon, marathon relay, 4-mile fitness challenge, 5K, champions mile, kids marathon, toddler trot, or pet walk.

Step 2: Fuel Your Participation with Purpose
As you register for your event, opt to join the Run for a Reason Charity Program and choose Autism Connection of Pennsylvania in the drop-down. This marks the start of your journey as a champion for change. With every step, you’ll be raising funds to support adults and families affected by autism.

Step 3: Rally Support
Share your commitment with friends, family, and colleagues. Harness the power of your network to amplify your impact. Autism Connection of Pennsylvania can provide stories of impact to inspire those around you to support your participation in this life-changing cause.

Step 4: Raise Funds, Ignite Impact
Every dollar you raise is a testament to your dedication and a catalyst for change. Empower your movement with the knowledge that your participation directly supports autism resources, education, support, and advocacy.

Step 5: Rewarding Your Dedication
If you hit your fundraising minimum (determined by event), your registration fee will be refunded—a tangible token that your commitment truly matters.

Fundraising Minimums:

Marathon: $500
Half Marathon: $400
Back Half Marathon: $1,000
Relay Team: $1,000
4-mile Fitness Challenge: $200
5K: $150
Champions Mile: $50
Kids Marathon: $50
Toddler Trot: $50
Pet Walk: $50

The Run for a Reason Charity Program is more than just finishing an event—it’s about moving with purpose, becoming an agent of change, and making a lasting, positive effect in the autism community.

Join us and run for autism awareness, support, and inclusion!

Not a Runner? Not a Problem!

There are many ways to support Autism Connection of Pennsylvania in the 2025 Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Run for a Reason even if you’re not running. Here are some great ways to get involved:

1. Fundraising and Donations

Sponsor a Runner: Contribute to a participant’s fundraising goal.
Share a story: Do you know a runner with a great story? Email tammi@autismofpa.org to share.

2. Volunteer to Cheer at the US Steel Champions Mile

Join Autism Connection of PA’s Cheer Station: Encourage runners along the course while representing Autism Connection of PA.
Share on Social Media: Post about Autism Connection’s involvement and encourage others to donate.

4. Corporate and Community Partnerships

Corporate Matching Gifts: Encourage your employer to match donations.
Sponsorships: Connect Autism Connection of PA with potential business sponsors.
Team Participation: Organize a group from your workplace or community to fundraise together.

Even if you’re not running, your support can make a big difference in helping Autism Connection of Pennsylvania continue our vital work. Every effort counts!

Kate looking over her shoulder holding a vase of flowers and smiling

Pittsburgh Marathon Runner Profile: Kate Alsaihati

As Kate prepares to bid farewell to her twenties, she is embracing a new challenge that goes beyond personal achievement. The 2024 Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon run is a testament to her resilience, determination, and the belief that we can overcome any obstacle. Her motivation is deeply rooted in her desire to be a strong and healthy mom for her two children, demonstrating that we can conquer challenges and do hard things.

Get to know Kate through her interview here:

Tell us a little about Nanny Kate.

When I was 18, I moved in with my cousin who had just had a baby. I was going into my first year of cosmetology school, and in exchange for room and board, I nannied for her and created such a special bond with her son who was two months old when I moved in, and a little over a year old when I graduated. I was lovingly referred to as “Nanny Kate” during my time there. A few years later, he and his younger brother were both diagnosed with autism.

Ten years later, I am still Nanny Kate. They are both such wonderful boys and I couldn’t think of a better organization to run for than Autism Connection of PA.

You have a milestone birthday coming up! What makes this marathon extra special?

This August I will be turning 30! I’ve never been a runner but a group of my friends convinced me to give it a shot and I thought, what better way to say good bye to my twenties than a half marathon?

I have two kids at home and I want to show them that you can do hard things! My kids deserve a mom that is able to run around with them and be healthy enough to do so! That is my motivation for this whole thing.

Any tips for runners?

I’m not sure if I’m in any position to give running tips because I’m still a beginner myself, but if I could give other people wanting to run something like this, any tips it would be to just keep pushing and keep going. It’s gonna be really hard and you will want to quit but don’t…. Keep going and keep running!

As Kate laces up her running shoes and ventures into uncharted territory, Autism Connection of PA invites you to be a part of her journey. Your encouragement, donations, and shared belief in the power of community can make a profound impact.

Visit Kate’s Race Roster page to show your support!

giving Tuesday and autism connection logos

Giving Tuesday 2023

The Meaning Behind Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday, (#GivingTuesday) began in 2012 in response to the commercialization of the holiday season. It is a powerful reminder that the true essence of the season is about giving. This global day of generosity encourages people to contribute to charitable organizations, volunteer their time, and lend a helping hand to others.

Autism Connection of Pennsylvania: A Lifeline and Hub for Families and Adults

Autism affects millions of families worldwide. Autism Connection of PA is a non-profit dedicated to supporting autistic people and their families in Pennsylvania. Founded in 1996, Autism Connection has been at the forefront of the autism community, offering support, information, and advocacy.

The Impact of Giving Tuesday: Autism Connection of PA’s Key Initiatives

Get Involved

As Giving Tuesday approaches, Autism Connection of Pennsylvania relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses, and communities to continue our vital work. Donations on this special day can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by autism. Involvement doesn’t always translate into monetary donations. Sharing your experience, connecting with others, offering help, or simply spreading the word about our work can have a huge impact.

You Can Make a Difference

On Giving Tuesday, let’s rally support Autism Connection of Pennsylvania and the community we serve. By donating, volunteering, and spreading the word, we can contribute to a brighter and more inclusive future. Together, we can make a difference and embody the true spirit of the holiday season – the spirit of giving.

Gingerbread Man Running Company Hosts Run for Autism Connection

The Gingerbread Man Running Company’s Run for Autism Connection of PA is open for registration and volunteers. Autism Connection recently visited the new GBM store location in Shadyside, where sales associate, Aaron and store manager, Luke, showed us the process of finding the right running shoes. We also talked about the Labor Day Run for Autism Connection, and why it is important to Gingerbread Man Running Company.

: GBM Shadyside

: Aaron (right) and Luke

: Wall of running shoes

GBM Shares Some Memories from the First Run for Autism Connection

One of our store employees, Justin, won first place at the very first Race for Autism. This was before Justin was an employee and he did so well at the race it really sticks out in our minds. The first time Luke ran the Autism Connection half-marathon, Luke finished the race and ran back to help other runners get past the hill…he even brought them water and encouraged them to keep going! We think this is a great illustration of the spirit that the Race for Autism carries every year.

Luke, the bike guy, manager at the 2022 gingerbread run

Luke “The Bike Guy” at the 2022 Labor Day Run for Autism Connection

Why We Support Autism Connection of PA

The behavioral and social boundaries that exist for autistic people can often make participating in events, like a race, feel daunting. Autism Connection reflects GBM’s goals to make exercising more accessible for everyone, by acknowledging the barriers that folks with autism face and working to eliminate those barriers.

Exercise accessibility is something GBM takes seriously and the benefits of steady movement and spending time outside can benefit anyone. We all know the physical benefits of consistent exercise, but it’s been shown there are several long-term mental health benefits of spending time outside and consistent movement. This race not only encourages holistic health, but also a sense of community.

Inspirational Words for the Runners

Any of these races- the 5k, the 10k, and/or the half are ACHIEVABLE! We all have different goals, but at the end of the day, just showing up is a win.

Artisan Gingerbread Man Cookie Visits GMB Running Company

: Gingerbread Man trying on gear

: Measuring the right fit

: Trying on shoes and testing gait

: Finding the perfect running shoe

This gingerbread man artisan cookie was part of a batch created by self advocate and professional baker, Rachel, in Pittsburgh.

Autism Connection of PA looks forward to this year’s Labor Day Run, and we welcome runners and volunteers to join us this September. We had a wonderful time at the 2022 Gingerbread Man Run for Autism Connection, and we can’t wait to see everyone in the upcoming event!

For those interested in running 5k/10k/Half-Marathon (or walking the 5k): Register Here

For those interested in volunteering: Sign Up Here

Jack Butler wearing workout clothes and sunglasses smiling into the camera and making peace signs

We Got Your Back, Jack! 2023 Pittsburgh Marathon Runner Runs for a Reason

I was diagnosed with ADHD at 43. I always knew that I was different from my peers. Looking back, that difference created barriers and annoyed people at times. My non-stop chatter and impulsivity would lead to fights, self medication, and forced isolation during adolescence and early adulthood. I reflect now and I realize that physical activity helped regulate me; you may say it saved me. The structure and expectation of sports was key in my day-to-day success and when it was missing, the consequences were unpredictable.

Having a daughter with the same observable traits led me to encouraging physical activity and we experienced the positive outcomes of those daily challenges. That is how we live our lives together. As a family we participate in 5ks, competitive dance, competitive powerlifting, soccer, and terrain races. And now at age 50, I myself am training for my first Marathon!

This journey has already led to some meaningful moments in my life. I am thrilled that I can fundraise for a vital cause, and neurodiversity is now an open part of my personal life as much as it has been part of my professional life.

Jack smiling broadly wearing a blazer and sitting in a conference room at Achieva

Jack Butler exudes passion for his work.

I have chosen to raise funds for the Autism Connection of PA, part of Achieva family of organizations where I have worked for 28 years. Autism Connection relies on fundraising to fulfill its mission to promote awareness and advocacy for and with autistic people. People who like me, may identify with being on the fringe of societal norms. Autism Connection is not focused on fixing people, but welcoming people to the table, supporting their goals, and valuing all perspectives.

Jack proudly holds up a tshirt that says Inclusion Matter

Inclusion Matters!

By sponsoring me to run the Pittsburgh Marathon, you will help Autism Connection continue their good work and help all people lead lives of personal significance. What started as a therapeutic way for me to self-regulate has now turned into a way I can help meet some of the support needs of others. Please join me in this effort – I could use your encouragement every step of the way!

We got your back, Jack! Visit Jack Butler’s 2023 DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon page.

Photo of Tracy Lynn singing and Steve Haberman with a crystal ball

A Magical Connection Fundraiser for Autism Connection of PA

On Saturday, April 29, 2023, our friends at A Magical Fundraiser are hosting 13th Hour Entertainment and Autism Connection of PA for a casual night out at the Tonidale Pub in Robinson Township. A Magical Connection is a fun, high-sensory event that benefits the region’s autism community.

This event features:

Dinner
Mindwarp Show featuring Mentalist/Magician Steve Haberman with the vocal talents of Tracy Lynn
Disc Jockey and Dancing by Nite Life DJz
Basket Raffle and 50/50 drawing

Autism Connection of Pennsylvania spoke with the talented Tracy Lynn and the amazing Steve Haberman.

Autism Connection (AC): You’re involved in many different endeavors. Can you share about 13 Hour Entertainment, A Magical Fundraiser, the Mindwarp show, and your partnership?

Tracy and Steve (TS): 13th Hour Entertainment Inc. is a company specializing in family and corporate entertainment. We have combined with Magic Wand Princess Parties, Nite Life DJz and other entertainers to provide A Magical Fundraiser to help organizations that have fundraising needs. We provide the entertainment for these functions along with advice on how to make fundraising events successful. From years of working at these events, we have learned a lot about how the organization can maximize their efforts and money generated. Over the years we have worked with schools, fraternal organizations, companies, and other charitable organizations. Our Mind Warp Show is one of the most popular entertainment options for this type of event. It combines magic, comedy, and music into one show that appeals to all audiences.

AC: How did you become involved with A Magical Connection Fundraiser for Autism Connection?

TS: We have a lot of friends and family who have children or relatives that are on the spectrum. We have been wanting to do a fundraiser for a few years now to benefit autism awareness, because we think it is important for families to know the support that is there for them and truly feel accepted. With the pandemic, our plans were put on hold. We have a very close friend who has autism that guided us to the Autism Connection of PA, and we couldn’t be happier to be working with this foundation.

Tracy Lynn and Steve Haberman

AC: Do you have any outstanding experiences with people on the autism spectrum as a performer/artist?

TS: Many entertainers that work with 13th Hour Entertainment have performed for people on the autism spectrum. Magician Steve Haberman in particular, performs at numerous schools throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia for school assemblies and there are normally kids at these events who have a range of disabilities, autism, and hidden differences. He has performed for children with special needs in smaller groups and birthday parties as well. Steve also provided magical entertainment for a convention at Pittsburgh’s David Lawrence Convention Center for an autism conference. During this conference, Steve performed multiple magic shows throughout the day for the kids while parents attended various meetings and lectures. It is our great pleasure to work with the Autism Connection of PA on a fundraiser for this very important cause.

Ticket and Sponsorship Information Here

If you have questions about this event, feel free to call Tracy Lynn at 13th Hour Entertainment, (412) 926-3472 or email her at Tcolussy.inc@gmail.com.

Support for Autism Connection of PA directly impacts people of all ages facing many challenges related to autism. Contributions raised will fund: help for families seeking resources, development of inclusive, sensory friendly areas across Pennsylvania, first responder training, virtual and in-person workshops, school homeroom and assembly talks about hidden differences, educator and administrative training, justice system reform, and so much more.

Visit Wednesday Wake Up Call for weekly updates of our current work.

The official registration and financial information of Autism Connection of PA may be obtained form the PA Department of State by calling 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement