To the Editor:

Princeton Child Development Institute, a school for children and adults with autism with nearly 50 years of service to the Princeton and surrounding communities, recently hosted ​Meadows Miler, our first 10K/5K and 1-mile fun run at Rosedale Park. The ​November 4 event was a fabulous success with approximately 500 runners and walkers participating on a crisp fall morning​. ​Over $30,000 ​was raised to support our programs​, which include an early intervention program, a preschool, a K-12 school, adult life and job skills programs, and group residences.

We could not have done this without the support of numerous organizations. Mercer County Parks Commission allowed us the use of their beautiful trail system. We were flooded with volunteers from Rider University, The College of New Jersey, L’Oréal, Apple, Trenton Elks Lodge and many other groups. Let Me Run, ​a nonprofit running program for fourth through eighth grade boys, sent a large number of participants to our event. Several vendors, including REI, Starbucks, the Gingered Peach, Eastern Mountain Sports, and Centercourt, provided food, drinks, and entertainment. Even the Philadelphia Eagles cheerleaders attended to add excitement to the race kickoff.

Meadows Miler was a chance for many of our students and former students to take part in their first run. Over 20 people with autism, both children and adults, enthusiastically participated with their families or with our PCDI staff. Most importantly, Meadows Miler provided evidence that when nonprofit and for-profit companies work together for the common good, anything is possible. We thank all of our participants, our volunteers, and the Mercer Meadows Park Commission for their support. Together, we not only made this inaugural run a success, we also raised awareness of autism and the amazing potential of children and adults with autism.

Patrick R. Progar

Executive Director

Princeton Child Development Institute