Jason Ventresco

Hello everyone.

2026 will be my 10th Dopey Challenge, and I decided to do something to make this milestone much more meaningful. I am excited about the chance to run for the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism.

I have also run the 2025 Rome Marathon, multiple races at Disneyland, and at one point or another, I have done every race held at Walt Disney World. I always enjoyed seeing the extra energy that charity runners bring to a race, and I look forward to being a part of that in 2026!

I live in Wake Forest, North Carolina, and got hooked on running in 2015. I work in the IT field, and enjoy spending time with my wife, traveling, cars, and motorcycles.

If you wish to donate a notable amount, I am willing to offer to wear whatever costume (within runDisney rules) you want for the 5K or 10K race, and a reasonable costume for the half marathon. For the full, I could do something, but please understand I need to be able to run in it. I have access to race photos and will make all running photos of me taken in said costume available. Also, if you have a favorite Disney character, and they are on the course that day, I will stop and take a photo with them.

The costume option will be offered to my top 4 bidders as of December 1, 2025. This will ensure that everyone has a chance to donate and that I have time to find a suitable costume.

I believe that supporting people with autism is important because it ensures they have the resources and opportunities to live fulfilling lives. Autism is a spectrum, and each individual experiences it differently, with varying needs and abilities.

The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism helps families obtain access to resources such as tailored education, therapy, job opportunities, and social programs that empower individuals to thrive in their own way. These resources help those with autism overcome challenges they may face in communication, social interaction, or daily living skills. Supporting people with autism not only enriches their lives but also contributes to a more diverse and enriched society where all abilities are recognized and valued.

Moreover, supporting those with autism helps reduce the stigma often associated with neurodiversity. Many individuals with autism experience misunderstanding or exclusion, leading to isolation and a lack of opportunity. By fostering acceptance and understanding, we can create a more inclusive environment where neurodivergent people feel empowered to be their authentic selves.

Encouraging empathy, education, and awareness surrounding autism can lead to a more compassionate society where differences are celebrated, and everyone has the chance to contribute meaningfully. Ultimately, supporting people with autism is about creating a world where all individuals, regardless of their neurological makeup, are treated with respect, dignity, and fairness.