Hundreds gathered last week for one of Potomac’s enduring 4th of July traditions.
Now in its 19th year, the July 4 Autism Speaks 5K started at the Potomac Library on Glenolden Drive and traveled through the surrounding neighborhood.
Over its tenure, gaining more participants, virtual participants and many more sponsors, the event has raised more than $4 million.
The Run was started by Potomac resident Susan Pereles in 2000 shortly after her nephew in Boston was diagnosed with autism.
“Every year it grows, this year we will surpass $400,000,” Pereles said.
Money raised goes to the Autism Speaks, a non-profit organization “dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.”