TEXARKANA -- Nearly 40 runners pounded the pavement Saturday in downtown for the inaugural All in for Autism.
The Greater Texarkana Autism Awareness fundraiser included a 5K run and fun run a horse show, motorcycle show, poker run, children's corner with slides and bounce houses and a cornhole tournament at Crossties event center. All child runners received a commemorative shirt and medal.
The all-day event also featured about 40 vendors, including soap makers, wood workers and food trucks.
"There's a little bit of something for everyone," said Connie Thomason, member of the Greater Texarkana Autism Awareness board.
The organization will use all proceeds, including the $30 race fee, to purchase equipment for children on both sides of the state line.
"One hundred percent of everything we raise and do goes to purchasing sensory items for children with autism," Thomason said.
Thomason said the equipment is awarded when an autistic child reaches a milestone, such as "when children talk for the first time, build social skills and create friendships."
"All teachers and children's therapists can apply for grants, and we have already given items to over 40 classrooms so far."
Thomason said with one in four children diagnosed with autism, there is a growing need for resources.
"This is our way to give back to the community and give back to the schools."
Runners take their mark at the start of the All in for Autism 5K on Saturday, May 21, 2022, in downtown Texarkana. The inaugural event was a fundraiser for the Greater Texarkana Autism Awareness. (Photo by Erin DeBlanc)