Seemingly becoming more prevalent, Autism is a disorder that effects 1 out of every 91 children. Appearing within the first three years of life, Autism can take on many different forms in each child diagnosed with it and often requires various forms of therapy (physical, speech, behaviorial).

Because the treatment and therapy for Autism can be costly and little is known about the disorder, organizations often offer to step in and help the parents of Autistic children; assisting them with questions, offering information, directing them toward proper care and aiding in the entire process.

One such organization in Orlando is PALS (Providing Autism Links & Supports). Affiliated with UCF and the university's program CARD (Center for Autism Related Disabilities), PALS is a non profit organization that helps support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders throughout the Central Florida area. This remarkable program has changed lives and helped make a difference for many local families. Recently, the Brevard chapter of PALS launched and hopefully more differences will be made throughout the area in the near future.

However, to make a true difference, PALS needs the support of those residents in the area who want to assist them in making positive changes. Through volunteer work, donations and joining various PALS events, those interested can help make the difference in the life of a person with Autism.

One such inspiring person is Kyle Rivera, a PALS board member, a mother of a three year old boy with ASD and an avid runner (her favorite form of stress relief). When her son was diagnosed with ASD, Kyle didn't think twice. She got involved in every way she could and when the need came for more funding for PALS, this tenacious mom of two decided she would do the one thing she knew she could do well: run for a change.

Kyle recognized PALS need for funding help and decided to organize a running team to raise money and increase awareness about Autism. Running in various races throughout the state, Kyle and her team proudly tout a PALS sign and answer questions from fellow runners about the program and its incredible deeds. Because she is a mother of a remarkable little boy who just so happens to have ASD, Kyle knows how important it is to get the facts out to people and to help families who need support, not just financially but in every sense of the word.

Though the racing season began in September for this PALS team, those interested in running with the team and those who are able to donate to the team are encouraged to do so. There is, after all, strength in numbers.

Races left this year are as follows:

OUC Half Marathon and 5K: December 3rd, 2011-Starting at Robinson Drive and ending at Lake Eola, this Orlando racing tradition offers a scenic route through the downtown area.

ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon: January 29th, 2012- Over 18,000 excited runners take to the streets of Miami in this endurance race.

Kyle hopes that this running team can inspire and encourage other moms. In her own words she says: "In a life that includes Autism, everything can seem a bit out of control. You often feel like you are holding your breath. Running is the one thing I can control..the one thing that forces me to breathe and it is the one way I know that I can help make a difference."

Kyle's leadership and determination to build a running team is something that will help the organization for years to come. After all, there are many races to be run and many lives to make a difference in.

If you are an avid runner or a frequent marathoner and want to join a team for a cause, you can do so here.

If you would like to donate to Kyle and her PALS team, you can do so here.

If you would like to get involved in PALS by volunteering in another form, visit their site at http://www.pals-ucfcard.org/