For the last 11 years, my in-laws have held the Chloë K 5K in Rensselaer, Indiana—a race that benefits the Organization for Autism Research—in honor of their daughter, Chloë. Thanks to community support, Jeff and Susie have raised $154,026 for Autism research!

While the Chloë K 5K raises money for autism research, the race has also become a community tradition that brings people and businesses from Rensselaer, Remington, Wolcott, and surrounding areas together for a great cause. I actually ran the race before ever meeting my husband, Zach. Little did I know when I was 15 that my husband was around there somewhere!

Every year, Jeff and Susie are blown away by the generous support of donors, volunteers, musicians, runners, and walkers, and 2017 wasn’t an exception.  

It’s estimated that 1 in every 68 children is born with autism.

Autism is a neurological disorder that makes it difficult for autistic individuals to:

• Engage with others in social interactions.
• Communicate with others.
• Behave and participate in activities typical of a child or person’s age.

The autism spectrum ranges from mild to severe, and every case is different, meaning no two autistic individuals are alike or face the exact same challenges.

The cause of autism is still unknown. While some believe the disorder is genetic, others believe it is caused by environmental factors. The Organization for Autism Research and Run for Autism hope to find the answer.

Learn more about autism.

We were blessed with a rain-free race.

Looking at the forecast up the race, race day was looking a little grim. However, checking the radar Saturday morning, we discovered that the storm was going to go around Rensselaer, Indiana. Talk about a blessing!

Many runners and walkers participated in this year’s race, and everyone finished to enjoy goodies from The Homestead Buttery & Bakery. See race results on Jeff Rayburn’s website.

Most notably, however, is that $20,120 was raised for autism research!

Save the date for Saturday, May 19, 2018!

The Chloë K 5K always takes place on the third Saturday of May, so save the date for Saturday, May 19, 2018 for a great cause! Watch for 2018 race updates here.

Download Chloë K 5K 2017 photos!

While I’m usually a family photographer, I really enjoyed taking photos of this year’s race. A few photos are featured below, but you can see the full gallery and download your favorite photos here!

Luminant Photography, owned by Victoria Rayburn, is a Lafayette, Indiana photographer who offers family photography, maternity photography, senior photography, and wedding photography. Contact Luminant Photography with questions or to book a session!

Follow Luminant Photography on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest!