Local Runners Laced up to Take Steps For Autism
The annual Taking Steps for Autism Walk & 5K drew families, fast feet, and community spirit to the Vanderburgh County 4-H Center
EVANSVILLE, Ind. — The 2026 Taking Steps for Autism Walk & 5K, the signature fundraising event of local nonprofit Autism Everyone, drew participants from across a seven-county region for a morning of movement, community and purpose. Families, volunteers, corporate sponsors and first responders turned the 4-H Center grounds into a temporary village of blue T-shirts and cheerful noise — a celebration as much as a race.
The event, held each April in recognition of Autism Awareness Month, raises funds to support individuals and families living with autism. What sets it apart from your average 5K is the atmosphere: the organizers describe it as “a relaxed, supportive environment,” and that spirit was evident in every wave of walkers and runners who crossed the line Saturday morning.
The Runners Who Got There First
Of course, some participants were more relaxed about it than others — particularly those at the front of the pack.
Top Male Finishers:
- Jordan Lutz, 37, Evansville — 18:50.7 (6:04/mile)
- Adrian Atiencio, 53, Evansville — 19:37.1 (6:19/mile)
- Brandon Hayes, 47, Evansville — 19:54.0 (6:25/mile)
Jordan Lutz took the overall men’s title with a speedy 18:50 — a time that would be impressive on any course, let alone one shared with strollers, leashed dogs and the general joyful chaos of a community fundraiser. Adrian Atiencio, 53, was not far behind, crossing in 19:37 to claim second. Brandon Hayes rounded out the men’s podium at 19:54.
Top Female Finishers:
- Camarin Gilman, 33, Evansville — 21:38.0 (6:58/mile)
- Jill Acton-Brown, 58, Evansville — 24:12.0 (7:48/mile)
- Libby Wagner, 47, Evansville — 24:18.5 (7:50/mile)
Camarin Gilman turned in the women’s top performance with a 21:38, placing seventh overall — a result that would make any competitive runner proud. Jill Acton-Brown, 58, was a standout in her own right, finishing in 24:12 to claim second among women. Libby Wagner crossed just seconds later at 24:18.
More Than a Race
But the real story of Saturday wasn’t on the results sheet. It was in the crowd.
Autism Everyone, which serves families across southwestern Indiana and beyond, relies heavily on events like this one to fund its programs and advocacy work. The organization extended its thanks to everyone who made the morning possible. “The team at Autism Everyone would like to express our gratitude to all families, board members, sponsors, vendors, first responders, and volunteers for a successful 2026 Taking Steps for Autism Walk & 5K!” the group said.
That gratitude felt earned. Events like this don’t run themselves — they run because communities decide to show up, lace up, and take a few steps together. On an April morning in Evansville, plenty of people did exactly that.
For more information about Autism Everyone and its programs, visit autismeveryone.org.