The Roots & Ruts Off-Road 5K is both a fundraiser to support people and families affected by autism, and a celebration of the strides our community continues to make in autism awareness and acceptance.
Runners/walkers will start the race at The Els Center of Excellence in Jupiter, Florida, and will continue through the North Jupiter Flatwoods Natural Area, the first certified autism-friendly trail in the state of Florida, and end back at The Els Center of Excellence. Racers will encounter multiple ground surfaces throughout the race, such as pavement, gravel, sand, grass, as well as roots and ruts, so we encourage each runner/walker to be cautious and aware of their path during the race.
The Sensory-Friendly Obstacle Course is perfect for children, families, and non-competitive runners. This course will feature obstacles that involve jumping, balancing, crawling, and more. Perfect for all ages and abilities!
Join us at the Post-Race Expo, where we will have vendor booths consisting of micro-businesses with products created by individuals with autism, race sponsors, and autism employment partners. The Expo will also have performances, activities, race awards, and more!
Race Schedule
7:00 AM: Parking Opens 7:45 AM: Welcome & National Anthem 8:00 AM: Race Begins & Race Expo Opens 11:00 AM: Race & Other Activities Close
Els for Autism is excited to invite the local community, along with our clients, staff, and supporters, to our sensory-inclusive, family-friendly FALLoween Festival! This festive event will take place on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at The Els Center of Excellence from 9 AM to 12 PM.
Join us for a morning filled with fun, including a sensory-friendly ‘Haunted Hallway’ entrance, a costume contest, carnival activities, light bites from the Big Easy Cafe by Ernie Els, trick-or-treating, and so much more. While admission to the FALLoween Festival is free, we encourage a $10 donation per family. Don’t miss out on this spooktacular celebration!
Els for Autism relies on generous sponsors to make our events possible! Your support of the FALLoween Festival will play a crucial role in empowering individuals with autism and their families. Sponsorship opportunities range from $250 to $5,000, with each contribution directly benefiting individuals and families affected by autism worldwide. In return for your generous support, your company will enjoy heightened visibility, reaching over 300 attendees and gaining increased brand exposure within the community, all while supporting the 1 in 36 individuals affected by autism. Click here to view sponsorship opportunities and benefits.
Spearheaded by Former World No.1, World Golf Hall of Famer, and four-time Major ChampionErnie Els, the Golf Challenge consists of a series of regional events at top-rated golf courses across the U.S. and Canada from March to October.
The Els for Autism Golf Challenge regional event series is one of the largest charity-driven, amateur golf tournaments. Since its inception in 2011, the Golf Challenge has raised over $37 million, supporting our vision of creating limitless possibilities for individuals with autism.
Teams, sponsors, and affiliate events who raise $15,000 or more during the 2024 Golf Challenge regional event series will enjoy a two-day extravaganza of golf and entertainment. Those who raise $30,000 or more during the 2024 Golf Challenge regional event series will be upgraded to ‘VIP Golden Circle’ status qualifying them for a range of unique privileges including an extra night of hotel accommodation. All guests are welcome to attend a welcome party, awards ceremony, and a fabulous gala celebration. Click here to visit the Grand Finale website to learn more.
Each year, two hundred women are invited to join Liezl Els in celebrating different cultures around the world at Liezl’s Annual Tea Party. At the event, guests will indulge in delicious regional-themed foods and experience the unique features of each county through decor and entertainment. This exclusive luncheon event has grown incrementally each year – raising over $250,000 in a single afternoon. The Tea Party will raise funds through sponsorships, table sales, the purchase of prize drawing tickets, and an elite silent auction.
On Monday, March 17, 2025, Liezl Els will host her 14th Annual Tea Party fundraiser. Throughout the years, Liezl’s Tea Party has become a cherished tradition, offering a cultural journey through various themes like Greece, India, Morocco, South Africa, Australia, and more. We are thrilled to unveil the theme for 2025: Ireland! We hope you will join us for a can’t-miss celebration!
