THERES A WAY STYRONDAVIS RESOURCE NETWORK
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Mission Statement
There’s A Way StyronDavis Resource Network is devoted to the health and wellness of all people. Our organizatioal mission is focused on women's reproductive health, men's prostate health and individual on the autism spectrum. At There’s A Way StyronDavis Resource Network, Inc., our mission is to empower, uplift, and advocate for individuals and families impacted by autism and related developmental challenges by providing access to critical resources, inclusive programs, and compassionate community support. We are committed to bridging the gap between underserved populations and the essential services they need to thrive—socially, emotionally, and economically. Grounded in equity and inspired by resilience, we aim to eliminate barriers to care by offering educational outreach, wellness initiatives, mental health support, and family-centered events that foster understanding, acceptance, and belonging. Through partnerships, advocacy, and grassroots efforts, we work to ensure that no family feels isolated or unsupported in their journey. We believe that there is always a way—a way to connect, a way to heal, a way to grow, and a way to be seen. With compassion at our core and community as our foundation, There’s A Way StyronDavis Resource Network, Inc. stands as a guiding light for families navigating the complexities of autism and developmental differences—proving that when we walk together, every challenge becomes a pathway to hope.
About This Cause
Introduction & Mission There’s A Way StyronDavis Resource Network, Inc. (TAWSDRN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to serving marginalized communities through initiatives that champion wellness, support, education, and empowerment. An integral part of our mission is advocating for families and individuals affected by autism. Through inclusive, strength-based programming, we strive to empower these families, build healthy communities, and foster environments where every individual with autism can thrive with dignity, respect, and joy. Who We Are Founded in March 2022,TAWSDRNis headquartered in Vanceboro, NC, and provides support locally, statewide, and globally. Our work is deeply informed by lived experience: our founder, Lindell Styron Davis, and Emilio Davis Sr.haswalked alongside autistic family members and recognized the need for comprehensive, community-rooted programming that bridges gaps in awareness, resources, and advocacy. Our nonprofit’s holistic approach—spanning health, wellness, education, and empowerment—has earned us national recognition, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022 for service excellence. Our Core Values Empowerment – Fostering independence and confidence through education, resources, and programs. Inclusion – Welcoming and celebrating all neurodiversity; promoting acceptance and community belonging. Well-Being – Enhancing physical, emotional, and mental wellness for people with autism and their families. Advocacy – Championing access to care, supportive services, and educational resources for marginalized and underrepresented groups. Community – Building strong local and statewide connections that foster mutual care and understanding. Innovation – Developing creative, culturally responsive programs tailored to real-world needs. Why This Event Matters The New Bern Autism 5K Run/Walk Fun Day aligns perfectly with our vision—blending community engagement, physical activity, awareness-raising, and joyful family experiences. As a highlighted annual event, it: Raises awareness for autism spectrum disorders and highlights the diversity of needs and strengths within the community. Fosters community connection through family-friendly activities and opportunities for neurotypical families to engage empathetically. Generates crucial funding that supports direct services for children and families affected by autism—be it therapy scholarships, educational tools, caregiver workshops, or support groups. This event is not just a fundraiser—it serves as a community celebration of neurodiversity, providing affirmation, joy, and practical support for families affected by autism. 2. Event Overview A. What Is the New Bern Autism 5K Run/Walk Fun Day? The New Bern Autism 5K Run/Walk Fun Day is an inclusive, family-centered event hosted each spring in picturesque New Bern, NC. With optional fitness participation—a 3.1-mile route open to all abilities—it seamlessly blends physical wellness with community celebration. Whether you jog the course, stroll with loved ones, scoot with little ones, or bring wagging canine companions, participants can enjoy: A fun-filled 3.1-mile course along tree-lined waterfronts and historic streets. Supportive ambiance with motivational signage, on-course volunteers, and inclusive pacing groups. Sensory-friendly zones staffed by certified autism professionals and volunteers, offering quiet, structured environments for individuals needing a calm break. Family-centric after-party featuring music, food trucks, art projects, sensory play stations, carnival games, bounce houses, and more. Awareness resources, including informational booths, educational panels, and a sensory-education zone for all attendees. Honorary recognitions, where family-buddy teams, educators, medical professionals, and volunteers who support the autism community are celebrated. B. Schedule & Activities 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Registration & Welcome Attendees arrive to rock music and smiles, meet volunteers, collect customized race T-shirts, bibs, wristbands, and race packets. 9:00 AM: Opening Ceremony Local officials, community leaders, andTAWSDRNstaff deliver opening remarks. Key moments include a brief talk from a parent of a child with autism and a sensory-friendly countdown. 9:15 AM: 5K Run/Walk Start Runners and walkers set off, grouped by pace categories. Trained volunteers at every mile guide and cheer on participants, with sensory support available. 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Family Fun Fiesta Live music, food trucks, sensory art booths, crafts, bounce zones, face painting, and interactive rope dance. Certified specialists lead stress-management or yoga sessions tailored for families. 11:00 AM: Panel Discussion: Living with Autism A moderated panel featuring parents, educators, therapists, and autistic self-advocates discusses daily life, challenges, supports needed, and answers Q&A. 12:00 PM: Awards & Recognition Ceremony Awards are given to top race finishers and celebrated community supporters; all participants receive a medal. Special acknowledgments feature outstanding individuals in awareness, inclusion, and caregiver support roles. 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Community Spaces Volunteers man booths with information on autism therapy, respite care, special education, and social groups. Families can sign up for free workshops or one-on-one resource consultations. 2:00 PM: Closing & Thank You Participants exit with a gift bag containing sponsor-branded wellness items, educational materials, and coupons. Community dignitaries offer thanks and invites to next year’s event. C. Inclusive Features & Accessibility Sensory-friendly zones for quiet time, soft lighting, and headphones Communication supports, including visual schedules, sign-language volunteers, and hearing-assistive devices Free autism-friendly race pacing assistance ADA-compatible course, wheelchair/scooter accessible Free adaptive devices, e.g. weighted vests, gentle pressure blankets, lap pads Family-first infrastructure, including nursing/quiet rooms, family restrooms, shaded picnic areas Volunteer training on neurodiversity, sensory support, and compassionate interaction Pet- and stroller-friendly design so every family member can participate 3. Impact & Outreach How the Event Transforms Lives Vital Funding for Direct Services Proceeds support: Therapy scholarships (ABA, OT, speech)Resource kits for families: sensory toys, fidget tools, educational materials Caregiver workshops—understanding autism, self-care, co-regulation Respite-care grants for family breaks Free or sliding-scale autism support groups Amplifying Autism Awareness Through educational booths, keynote speakers, personal stories, and media coverage, thousands gain exposure to autism realities—fostering empathy, inclusion, and appreciation for neurodiversity. Building Community & Reducing Isolation The event offers a shared space for families, dismantling isolation, and strengthening social support. Parents connect, children bond, and the stigma around autism is actively broken. Empowering Self-Advocates Youth and adult autistic participants share experiences, voice advocacy, and build leadership—ushering in representation and role models. Promoting Physical & Mental Wellness Participants of all abilities engage in healthy activity while families are introduced to resources for stress reduction, sensory regulation, and emotional well-being. Inspiring Local Action TAWSDRNbuilds partnerships with local agencies, schools, businesses, and community groups, catalyzing collaboration and sustained efforts beyond the event. Real Stories from the Community Case Study – The Hernandez Family Before the event, Maria and Carlos Hernandez “felt lost.” They’d struggle to find sensory-friendly therapy. ATAWSDRNscholarship covered eight weeks of OT, and the 5K event introduced them to other families. Their son, Diego, blossomed—and Maria now volunteers annually.rs, and shared her story to elevate awareness. These stories reflect impact: therapy access, community integration, self-confidence, and social support. 4. Volunteer & Partnership Opportunities Volunteer Roles Course Marshals – guide participants and ensure safety Sensory Support Staff – host quiet zones, provide compassionate care Registration & Check-in – help participants sign in and distribute kits Booth Facilitators – support partner organizations and agencies First Aid Assistants – basic medical assistance in liaison with EMS Kids’ Activity Leaders – facilitate art, crafts, music Prayer Teams / Chaplain Support – provide spiritual comfort Photography & Outcome Documentation – record moments and reflections Volunteers receive training, event T‑shirts, meals, and a TAWSDRN volunteer certificate. Sponsor & Community Partnerships Levels of Sponsorship Presenting Sponsor – $20,000+ (headline branding, VIP hospitality booth, 10 VIP entries) Gold Sponsor – $10,000 (booth, signage, 5 participant entries plus team) Silver Sponsor – $5,000 (2 participants, event promotion) Bronze Sponsor – $2,500 (promoted via social and event materials) Community Friend – $1,000 (recognition in programs, social media, logo on t‑shirts) Additional ways to partner: Volunteer teams Team registrations (schools, clubs, faith groups) In-kind contributions (printing, signage, booths, snacks, etc.) Proprietary booths (therapy providers, schools, counseling) Outcomes for Partners Market visibility among 400,000+ regional residents Brand alignment with autism awareness and family wellness Community goodwill, media exposure, and alignment with a national award‑winning charity Employee engagement via team participation or volunteer opportunities5. Supporting TAWSDRN Beyond the 5K Ongoing Programs Wellness Advocacy – monthly