Hundreds gathered for the annual Northern New Jersey Empower Walk and 5K for Autism Speaks, an event dedicated to raising awareness and support for the autism community.

Runners, walkers, families and advocates came together to participate in the event, which aims to promote understanding of autism while connecting individuals and families with valuable resources and support networks.

“The DDD community is misunderstood a lot of times,” said one participant. “So, I’m here to support that community.”

Community members, sponsors and families affected by autism formed teams and raised funds for the cause. Among them was Steps for Auggie, a team created by Yessenia Ortiz in honor of her daughter, who is on the autism spectrum.

“Steps for Auggie represents my daughter, who’s on the spectrum,” Ortiz said. “She’s a level three nonverbal. She was diagnosed when she was two and a half years old. It’s important to us to raise awareness.”

While some participants ran the 5K course, others walked alongside loved ones, showing support and solidarity with the autism community. Organizers say the event is about more than logging miles. It also serves as an opportunity for families to learn about available services, build connections and find support from others who share similar experiences.

What began more than two decades ago as a walk in Ohio has since expanded into a nationwide movement, bringing communities together to advocate for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.

For many attendees, the event is about creating a more inclusive society where people with autism are understood, valued and supported.

“It’s good to come somewhere like this just to get a basic understanding of how different everyone is and how everyone deserves their needs to be met and to be seen and to be supported,” said participant Augie Gonzalez

The morning was filled with miles, memories and meaningful moments, all centered on one goal: supporting people with autism and the families who love them.