NATICK — Last Sunday, former Patriots player Doug Flutie, Jr. joined friends, family and Massachusetts locals at the 20th Annual Flutie 5K in Flutie’s hometown of Natick.
The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism hosts the Annual Flutie 5K to boost awareness and raise money for those living with autism and their families. This year, the event had over 1,200 participants and spectators raising a record $110,000. The money is used to fund various programs and initiatives run by the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism that aim to enrich the lives of individuals with autism.
Well known pianist and singer Lavender Darcangelo of Fitchburg provided a stunning performance of the national anthem.
In addition to the race, the event also included an award ceremony hosted by Flutie, music and entertainment, prizes, a post-race luncheon hosted by Wegman’s, the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Truck, and medals and shirts for all racers and walkers. Local Sponsors Include: Bernardi Auto Group, Wegmans, Eastern Bank, Boston Ability Center, Skybokx, and Ben & Jerry’s.
Former NFL quarterback Flutie, and his wife Laurie, started the Doug Flutie Jr. Flutie Foundation for Autism in 1998 after their son, Dougie, was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. Over its 20-year history, the Flutie Foundation has distributed over $15 million to schools and organizations who provide clinical therapies, respite services, recreational programs, social skills training, job supports and more for people affected by autism. The Flutie Foundation also provides education technology tools, adaptive camp scholarships, safety equipment, and direct family support through its partnerships and special initiatives.