Autism Heroes Road Trip 2026 Stops in Alliston on Endurance Journey for Awareness

Autism Heroes Road Trip 2026 Stops in Alliston on Endurance Journey for Awareness

NEW TECUMSETH, ON – The Town of New Tecumseth will welcome autism advocate and endurance athlete Adam McEachern to Alliston on May 5 as part of the Autism Heroes Road Trip 2026, a province‑wide run‑and‑cycle initiative raising awareness and funds for autistic individuals and their families. McEachern’s arrival will be marked by a ceremonial flag raising at Town Hall, scheduled between 3:45 PM and 4 PM, pending his arrival time.

“Our community is proud to welcome Adam McEachern to New Tecumseth and to recognize the incredible commitment behind the Autism Heroes Road Trip,” said Mayor Richard Norcross. “Adam’s journey shines a light on the lived experiences of neurodiverse individuals and their families, and it reminds us of the importance of building inclusive, supportive communities for everyone.”

McEachern will travel more than 1,000 kilometres across Ontario — running and cycling 50 to 70 kilometres per day — from Windsor to Ottawa between April 30 and May 17, 2026. The journey is designed to spark conversation and action around access to services, inclusion, and long‑term supports for people on the autism spectrum.

A police officer with York Regional Police for over 21 years, McEachern is also the father of two neurodiverse sons. His advocacy work grew out of his family’s experience navigating autism supports and the gaps many families continue to face.

“This road trip could go from a run to a crawl, what with the weather and the potential for injuries, but if this is what it takes to motivate people and make the world more equal and a fairer place, than that’s what it takes,” said Adam. “Some juice is worth the squeeze.”

Proceeds from the Autism Heroes Road Trip 2026 will support Kerry’s Place Autism Services, which provides programs and services to approximately 8,000 neurodiverse individuals and their families across Ontario.

Supported by a volunteer crew and recreational vehicle, McEachern’s 18‑day journey includes stops in Windsor, Brampton, Alliston, Newmarket, and concludes in Ottawa, near the Terry Fox statue.

Community members are encouraged to follow the journey, attend local stops, and contribute to creating a more inclusive future.

Donations can be made at kerrysplace.org/donate

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Julia Jackson
Manager, Corporate Communications
Town of New Tecumseth
705-435-3900  
communications@newtecumseth.ca