Annual bike ride raises money to support Autism Society story and podcast by Lauren Gerson  |
| Two cyclists cross the finish line of the 62 mile ride in the 5th annual Austin Autism Society Bike Ride on April 1. The event was hosted by the Autism Society of Greater Austin to raise money. photo by Lauren Gerson |
The Autism Society of Greater Austin held their fifth annual bike ride April 1 in Georgetown, Texas to kick off Autism Awareness Month. They raised over $23,000 from the ride to advocate for education and support of those affected by autism.
"The ride is our big fundraiser of the year," said Elizabeth Wesler, co-director of the bike ride. "Because of the bike ride, we've been able to go from an all-volunteer group to actually have two part-time paid employees. We're very excited, because that allows us to expand our services and help to better serve the community."
Proceeds from the ride go to the society's operating budget, enabling them to help families in the Central Texas region.
Proceeds from the ride go to the society's operating budget, enabling them to help families in the Central Texas region.
"We help about 800 families a month, with just free information and referrals for services," said Fran Kennedy-Ellis, director of operations for the Autism Society of Greater Austin.
The four-course bike ride was held at Berry Springs Park and Preserve with 9-mile, 24-mile, 42-mile, and 62-mile courses. In addition, there was a 2-mile family walk and 5 kilometer route through the park. The society said 315 people registered for the bike ride.
"It's a fun, relaxed family event. It's un-timed, there's no pressure," Kennedy-Ellis said. "We always try to have just a relaxed atmosphere so that the families that are affected by autism can come out to enjoy and support the ride."
Karen Pierce, of the Tough Cookie cycling team, rode the 42-mile course and rode successfully, despite the 20 mph wind speed through the hills.
"I rode part of the 60, part of the 40, and added on to it," Pierce said. "It was great. Beautiful weather. Beautiful flowers. Beautiful scenery. The wind, not so happy. The wind and the hills, not so happy. But you know what? That's what riding is all about, and it's good to come out for a good cause."
Cyclists, speech pathologists, family members, and those with autism participated in the ride.
"I have a little boy with Asperger's syndrome. He came out and rode today," Kennedy-Ellis said. "I think often families with autism isolate themselves, because it's too challenging sometimes to get out of the house. And it's really important to just take that step, and be a part of a community of hope."
