Jojo's Empowering Run for Autism Resources: A Journey of Advocacy and Awareness

Empowering Voices: Jojo's Journey towards Autism Awareness

Jojo Levey’s involvement with the neurodivergent community isn't just a chapter in her life; it’s the core narrative that shapes her ambitions, actions, and dreams. As she prepares to tackle the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon through the organization she passionately supports, the Organization for Autism Research (OAR), her commitment to inclusivity and empowerment is clearer than ever.

From Tutor to Advocate: The Transformation of Jojo Levey

Jojo's journey began when she was just 15 years old, tutoring three siblings diagnosed with learning disabilities, including autism. This pivotal experience wasn’t just about teaching; it ignited her passion for advocating for proper resources for neurodivergent individuals. “It was very difficult creating curriculum tailored to different learning styles, but I wanted to give the family proper resources,” she recalled. This led her to seek out educational resources and training on how best to support these children. Her tutelage extended beyond academics, creating a bond that shaped her adolescent life and provided her with a unique lens into the struggles and triumphs faced by individuals who are often overlooked.

A Personal Connection to Autism

Jojo's motivation is deeply personal, rooted not just in her experiences as a tutor, but also as a family member. With a mother who cared for Jojo's aunt diagnosed with autism, Jojo's understanding of the challenges faced by autistic individuals has been enriched by family history. She shares that her aunt now thrives in an assisted living environment tailored for autistic residents, where she can enjoy activities and socialize freely, escaping the feelings of being ‘othered’ that often accompanies her condition. Jojo’s pride in her family’s journey highlights the significant impact of community-based resources.

Economic Disparities and Resource Allocation

Throughout her experiences, Jojo became increasingly aware of the disparities in resource allocation among neurodivergent individuals. "Why aren’t these resources provided on a grander scale?" she wondered, a question that propelled her into psychology at NYU. As a psychology major, she aimed to hone her skills and advocate for neurodivergent individuals more effectively, believing that no one should feel marginalized or isolated due to a lack of support.

Jojo's Running Journey with RUN FOR AUTISM

After discovering the RUN FOR AUTISM program through a friend, Jojo set her sights on the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon. That experience was transformative, leading her to commit to running the Chicago marathon this fall, her second marathon with OAR. “I’m super excited,” she exclaimed, as she gears up for another run aimed at raising awareness and funds to enhance services for autistic individuals. The RUN FOR AUTISM program not only promotes athleticism but also fosters community connections and a platform to advocate for the resources needed by many.

Building a Brighter Future for Autistic Individuals

As Jojo prepares for the marathon, she reflects on the strides taken over the past decade towards inclusivity for autistic individuals. “So much has been done in the last 10 years, including specialized education and positive media portrayal,” she notes, “but there’s still more to be done.” Her participation in marathons is more than just a personal achievement; it symbolizes a broader movement towards inclusivity, understanding, and advocacy.

Inspiration and Community: A Call to Action

Jojo’s story serves as a rallying cry for others to become advocates within their communities. The RUN FOR AUTISM program stands as a testament that every mile run and every penny raised goes towards transforming lives. Joining a RUN FOR AUTISM team or participating independently in an athletic event can amplify efforts towards autism research, ultimately contributing to a future where every individual receives the resources they need to thrive. As Jojo has shown, whether running, advocating, or simply spreading awareness, every action counts in making the world a more inclusive place.

As we look towards the marathon in Chicago, we invite you to support Jojo Levey and the RUN FOR AUTISM initiative by following her journey and contributing to autism research. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of many.