Why Steph is Running:

"On February 22, I will be running my second half marathon in support of Mission: Kid Success, a nonprofit whose mission is deeply personal to me.

I grew up in a lower-income community without access to the testing and support services that can make a profound difference in a child’s life. Because of that experience, I understand firsthand the gap that Mission: Kid Success works to close—and the long-term impact access can have when it’s offered early, equitably, and with care.

What resonates most with me is the dedication of the parents who take the time to complete applications so their children can receive services they otherwise wouldn’t have access to. That level of advocacy for their children, combined with the commitment of Mission: Kid Success volunteers, is deeply moving. It reflects a belief in children’s potential that I wish had been available to me when I was navigating my own diagnosis.

This race also represents a personal milestone. I was once told I would never walk without a cane. Being able to run today—to move freely and confidently in my body—is something I hold with immense gratitude. Choosing to run for Mission: Kid Success feels like honoring both how far I’ve come and the kind of support system I hope more children and families can access.

There is no obligation or expectation tied to this race—only sincere appreciation for any support, encouragement, or shared belief in the importance of access and early intervention."

Please support Steph by donating to MKS, for every dollar helps a child receive care. Here is an idea on how the donation can impact a child:

$13.10 helps remove barriers to accessing autism services
$26.20 helps provide one adaptive enrichment session
$52.40 helps provide one specialized therapy session
$131.00 helps support a month of tutoring for a child
$524.00 helps provide critical evaluations or multiple therapy sessions

About Mission: Kid Success

Since 2019, Mission: Kid Success (MKS) has been a lifeline for families struggling to afford the essential therapeutic services their children with autism and related conditions desperately need. These therapies—speech, occupational, behavioral, and educational support—are not just helpful; they are life-changing. However, many families face the harsh reality that insurance covers only a small portion of these costs, leaving them with difficult decisions about their child’s care.

As a volunteer-based organization, every dollar raised goes directly to providing services for children in need. To date, MKS has awarded over $140,000 in grants, helping local children gain access to the therapies they need to grow, learn, and thrive. But the need is greater than ever. Right now, there are children waiting for funding—who require immediate access to these critical services. Without financial support, they may face delays in receiving care that could significantly impact their development.

This is an opportunity for the community to come together and make a real difference. Every dollar raised helps provide therapy sessions and specialized support, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of a child’s potential.

By supporting this event, participants and donors are giving children the opportunity to succeed—because every child deserves the chance to reach their fullest potential.

Please visit www.missionkidsuccess.org for more information.

EIN: 82-1895317 NJ Charities Registration: CH4196300

INFORMATION FILED WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION AND THE PERCENTAGE OF CONTRIBUTIONS RECEIVED BY THE CHARITY DURING THE LAST REPORTING PERIOD THAT WERE DEDICATED TO THE CHARITABLE PURPOSE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY BY CALLING 973-504-6215 AND IS AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET AT http://www.state.nj.us/lps/ca/charfrm.htm. REGISTRATION WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT.

Every Mile for Mission: Kid Success

By Mission: Kid Success A NJ NonProfit

Every Mile for Mission: Kid Success

Support Steph’s Half Marathon to Empower Kids with Autism

Team Members