Charity Spotlight: Flutie 5K raises $100,000 to support families with autism

The 16th Annual Flutie 5K took place this past Sunday, October 4, in Doug Flutie‘s hometown of Natick, Mass. The race, hosted by the 1984 Heisman winner’s charity foundation drew close to 900 runners and walkers. Thanks to the collective efforts of the participants, volunteers, spectators, and sponsors, the foundation raised $100,000 to further its mission of helping families with autism live life to the fullest.

Since its inception, The Flutie 5k has raised more than $1,000,000 to fund the Flutie Foundation’s programs and partnerships. This particular event brings the local community together in a special way as families proudly wear matching shirts with the name of a loved one living with autism, corporate teams come out on their day off to make a difference, youth groups volunteer their time to help set up tables and chair, and local residents show up in droves to stand in unity.

Flutie founded his foundation 17 years ago after his own son, Doug “Dougie” Flutie Jr., was diagnosed as autistic.

“For me, the foundation has really broadened my horizons and opened my eyes to a whole different world,” Flutie told the MetroWest Daily News. “I was so focused playing football for so many years that I had the blinders on with one central focus and when we started fundraising I realized how many people there really are, how many people care.”

To join the Heisman Trophy Trust in helping the Flutie Foundation support families with autism, click here.

Here is a photo gallery of the event, courtesy of the Flutie Foundation.