By Steffen Klenk
“Any day you can do something for children with disabilities, it’s a good day.” It is a saying that Mike Monichetti has echoed since the inaugural Run and Walk for Autism in 2009. From year to date, the event has generated more than $1 million for organizations and families in South Jersey. In its 16th year, thousands are anticipated to join the festivities this Presidents Day weekend on the Promenade in Sea Isle City.
The event was founded by Monichetti, founder of Mike’s Seafood and a longtime Sea Isle resident. He and his wife, Jeannie, have four children, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. Since forming the run and walk, spokesperson Kevin Capone says the family has dedicated their lives to helping other families find the necessary resources, especially in our region. “A lot of people with children who have disabilities don’t know where to turn.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 36 children are identified as being on the autism spectrum. In New Jersey, the official ratio is 1 in 35 children. In a time when many families and special needs individuals are looking for services, Monichetti wants to ensure that young adults have the services they need. Proceeds from the event will benefit special services school districts, autism support groups, and families throughout Atlantic, Cape May, and Cumberland Counties.
Last year, the event returned in-person after a two-year hiatus from the pandemic. With its new space at Excursion Park and easy access to the Promenade, an estimated 4,000 people attended the event, raising $150,000 for autism-related efforts. Capone says even in tough times, the public has found ways to support the mission. “Whether they’re someone who has a child on the spectrum or a regular customer of Mike’s Seafood, the public has been very supportive.”
The run and walk will officially take place on Saturday, Feb. 17, at noon, on the Promenade and JFK Blvd. After the event, attendees are invited to meet under the heated tents at Excursion Park for an awards ceremony, live music, door prizes, food, and activities for the kids. Online registration for the run and walk is open until Friday, Feb. 16, at 4 p.m. You can also register in person before the event. For more details and information, please visit polarbearrunwalkforautism.com.
