Eagles Autism Challenge Raises More than $2.3 Million for Autism Research, Programs

The inaugural Eagles Autism Challenge presented by Lincoln Financial Group raised more than $2.3 million to support innovative autism research and programs. One hundred percent of participant-raised funds will be directed to the groundbreaking work being conducted at three nationally recognized institutions: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Drexel University, and Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health. By bringing together the region’s top autism research organizations, the Eagles Autism Challenge aims to drive scientific breakthroughs and establish Philadelphia as the hub for autism research and care.

The team’s landmark initiative began on Friday, May 18, with a kickoff party for participants in Lincoln Financial Field’s West Club, followed by the inaugural Eagles Autism Challenge on Saturday, May 19. The charity event featured more than 3,000 participants taking part in the Wawa Junior 15-Mile Ride, Wawa Shorti 30-Mile Ride, and the Wawa Classic 50-Mile Ride, along with the Five Below family-friendly 5k run/walk. Participants were greeted at the starting line by the Super Bowl Champions, including Carson Wentz, Nick Foles, Zach Ertz, Jason Kelce, Chris Maragos, Mack Hollins, Nelson Agholor, and Rodney McLeod. All routes began and ended at Lincoln Financial Field, with the field’s 50-yard line serving as the finish line for all of walkers, runners and bikers. The awards ceremony, a variety of family-friendly field activities, and a performance by Interscope recording artist Alex Aiono took place in the afternoon.

The Eagles Autism Challenge was fully supported by the entire Eagles organization, including players, coaches, alumni, ownership, leadership executives, support staff, Eagles Cheerleaders and mascot SWOOP.

Learn more about the Eagles Autism Challenge.