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Burlington women do 'virtual' race for for autism research

Wicked Local Northwest - 8/11/2020

Aug. 10--This year, the Falmouth Road race will be run "virtually," from Aug. 15-29. Two Burlington women, Jenna Shields and Kathryn Russo, are running for Dougies Team, the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. According to spokesperson, Emily de Lacoste, funds raised will go toward helping people and families affected by autism live life to the fullest.

"Over the last 21 years, the foundation has impacted thousands of people and families affected by autism through several programs and initiatives and by the distribution of over $15 million to address their critical needs," Lacoste said. "In addition to a robust annual general grant program, DFJFA provides technology supports, adaptive camp scholarships, community safety support, direct financial assistance to families, and employment opportunities for adults with autism. The foundations general fundraising page is here -- https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/doug-flutie-jr-foundation-for-autism1

Tell us a little about yourselves: what do you do, about your families

Shields: I work at Fox Hill elementary school as a tutor! I absolutely love my job. This past year I graduated with my Masters in Elementary Education. I decided to run for The Flutie Foundation Last year after learning about all of the wonderful families and schools that they donate the money to.

Russo: I have been working at Pine Glen Elementary school in Burlington for two years as an instructional assistant in a special education classroom. I began working at Pine Glen while I was in between jobs and immediately fell in love with the job and all of my students. I am currently in a master's program to earn a degree in special education.

Why are you running the race for the Flutie Foundation?

Shields: The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation is extremely important to me because of all of the amazing kids I am blessed to work with every day. Between working at an elementary school in Burlington, as well as ABA work, I strive to support every child with autism, whether it be through language, social interaction, or just having fun. About seven years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Max and his family. Max was the first child I had worked with that had autism, and I have been fortunate enough to still be able to work with my favorite little guy, along with so many others. Max (and his peers) teach me something new every day, and I am so excited to be able to run for a foundation that will directly help make an impact on great families like his.

Russo: Joining Dougie's Team and raising money for autism has been such a special opportunity for me that I am very grateful to have and to be a part of. This cause is so special and means so much to me! I work part-time at an ABA clinic as a behavioral therapist for students with autism as well. I am so passionate about the work that I do and love all of the children that I work with. They are so smart, sweet and funny!

Have you done it before? How is it different this year?

Shields: This will be our second year running together. It is a home edition this year due to COVID, but we still will be completing the run together.

Russo: The training process has been pretty similar than last year for me, but I am sad to not be able to enjoy the actual race day in person. It was such a fun day with crowds of people cheering you on! It was so fun to run alongside so many other people running for such amazing causes. Although it may not be the same I am still looking forward to completing the race for all of the students I work with and many others!

How much do you hope to raise?

Shields: Last year we raised over $1,000 each, but this year it has been more difficult due to the actual event being cancelled. My goal is $500 this year and I am almost there.

How can people help?

Shields: If anyone would like to donate they can click this link: https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/doug-flutie-jr-foundation-for-autism1/jennashields or https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/doug-flutie-jr-foundation-for-autism1/kathrynrusso3

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