Above: The annual Walk/Run on Southborough roads to support NECC’s work, including autism research and education, is next monty. (images edited from fundraiser page)
If reading about residents participating in the marathon is inspiring you to lace up your running shoes, there’s a fundraising race, with an even stronger Southborough link, that’s coming up soon.
The Southborough based New England Center for Children’s annual 5K Walk/Run for Autism is just a month away.
On Saturday, May 9th, runners and walkers will take help raise awareness and funds for NECC’s autism research and education. Expect a large crowd, including many Southborough residents.
Registration is $25 and includes a race T-shirt and bib. (You can also join/form a team to fundraise.)
As usual, the event includes a free post-race cookout to celebrate. The event includes a vendor expo with exhibitors giving away “swag”.
NECC invites everyone to participate:
This family-friendly event brings together neighbors, runners, walkers, students, and local supporters to raise critical funds for NECC, a Southborough-based nonprofit that has been serving children and adolescents with autism for more than 50 years. Proceeds from the event directly support NECC’s educational programs, research, and services that help individuals with autism achieve meaningful, lasting outcomes.
Whether you’re an experienced runner, a casual walker, or someone who simply wants to show support, the NECC 5K is designed for all ages and abilities. Participants can expect a welcoming community atmosphere, scenic local routes, and the shared satisfaction of making a real difference close to home.
Why participate?
Support a nationally recognized organization rooted in Southborough
You’ll get a personal fundraising page as well as tips and ongoing support
Help fund life-changing education and research for individuals with autism
Enjoy a healthy, inclusive community event with friends and family
Show Southborough’s commitment to compassion, inclusion, and community impactRegistration is now open, and early sign-ups are encouraged. Community members can register as individuals, form teams with friends or coworkers, or participate as families. Local businesses and organizations are also invited to get involved through sponsorship opportunities.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 9, 2026, and join NECC and your neighbors in stepping up for autism. Together, Southborough can make this 5K Walk/Run a meaningful celebration of community and purpose.
The walk/run begins at 10:00 am, followed by the cookout for participants. There will also be raffles and prizes.
If you’re not up to doing the 5K, you can still mark the date to give your support in person and/or donate online.
For those of you who are planning to participate, below are more details.
The day’s activities are based at Neary School’s campus (53 Parkerville Rd) with the course looping around the Parkerville and Deerfoot Road area. (See map right.)
No parking is available on-site. Satellite lots are at 225 Turnpike Road (walking distance away — ½ mile) and NECC’s Main Campus (33 Turnpike Rd) with shuttles from both locations.
I don’t see a deadline for online registration this year. In the past, it has closed days before the event, but registration is always welcome onsite that morning (starting at 8:30 am).
For more of the event details or to register, click here.
