Team Ausome is running to create more spaces in their much-needed programs
Ausome Ottawa is gearing up for Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, one of the charity’s favourite events of the year. Since 2017, children with autism and their families from throughout the National Capital Region have come together to walk, run and cheer each other on as Team Ausome, and raise awareness and funds along the way.
Many children with autism face barriers to accessing sport and recreation opportunities due to a lack of training and resources in school and community programs. Ausome Ottawa was founded in 2015 to remove those barriers by creating programs specifically designed to provide a welcoming and supported environment for every child to meaningfully participate and succeed, and at no cost to families. It also trains educators, coaches, leagues and facility operators on how to better understand autism and make their own sports and recreation programs more inclusive.
As Executive Director Jamie Logue explains, Ausome Ottawa is more than sports. “We’re about building courage, connection and community—on and off the field of play. Where children grow their courage muscles, confidence and independence. Where meaningful connections and friendships form between teammates and families. And where we come together as a community to build an autism-inclusive future.”
That’s why Team Ausome is excited to be back for Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. “As an official charity partner, we’re running to raise funds to create more spaces in our spring and summer programs, so that more children will get their chance to play too.”
Programs like its Family Run Club, where children practice physical literacy and learn proper running form through fun games and activities right alongside their family members. Every week, the Ausome coach, staff and volunteers lead the group through lesson plans that let everyone set their own goals while building up their confidence and endurance. And this year, the group will have the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend as a goal to work towards!
15-year-old William is one of many Ausome athletes who can’t wait for race day. Through years of Run Club and other programs, William has not only learned how to run, he has learned to love it. That’s the kind of life-changing impact that Ausome Ottawa works to make in the lives of all its athletes and families.
Are you looking for a great cause to run and fundraise for this Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend? Join Team Ausome and help them hit their fundraising goal of getting more children like William active this summer and creating a more autism-inclusive community for all.