The High Ridge Fire Protection District will hold its 10th annual Firehouse 5K for Autism on Saturday, April 1.
Chief John Barton said the event raises funds for autism support services through Easterseals Midwest.
The services include community living support, employment training and early childhood services.
He said several of the fire district members have been personally affected by autism, including one firefighter whose child was diagnosed with autism about the same time the district’s health and wellness committee was looking to sponsor a 5K.
Since the run began, the fire district has raised about $30,000 for autism charities, including Easterseals Midwest, which has been the beneficiary for eight years, Barton said.
Last year, about 125 people participated in the event, raising $2,500.
The event also includes a 2-mile walk.
Barton said the 5K starts at 8 a.m. at High Ridge Fire Protection District Station 1, 2842 High Ridge Blvd., in High Ridge, and proceeds along High Ridge Boulevard to Frank’s Road and then returns to the station. The walk proceeds for a mile along High Ridge Boulevard before returning to the station.
After the 5K, refreshments will be served, and an award ceremony will be held. Medals will be given to the top three finishers in different age groups, as well as to the top three first responders in the 5K.
The registration fee is $25 for those who sign up before March 31 or $30 for those who sign up after that. To register online, go to highridgefirefighters.org/firehouse-5k-for-autism. A $3.29 online registration fee will be charged.
Firefighters will be busy the following weekend as well, when they host Breakfast with the Easter Bunny. The free event will be held from 8-11 a.m. Saturday, April 8, at Station 1. Pancakes, sausage, and biscuits and gravy will be served. The Easter Bunny will be on hand for photos with children.