This story originally appeared in The Centre County Gazette.
On Sept. 14, the ACRES Project will host its fourth annual Amazing Race fundraiser at Tussey Mountain, inviting teams to test their creativity, teamwork and endurance in an afternoon of challenges designed to engage participants and support a meaningful mission.
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and blends competition with community spirit, offering activities that range from mental puzzles to fun physical tasks. Organizers say the concept fits ACRES’ mission of supporting neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with autism, as they navigate the unique challenges of daily life and employment.
“We thought it really fit our mission because there were challenges that were incorporated into the Amazing Race, and the individuals that we work with have challenges in their everyday lives,” ACRES Founder and Executive Director Bellamarie Bregar said. “It just felt like a good match between the two.”
This year’s event features everything from word games to unconventional competitions, like swapping hockey sticks for fly swatters to knock golf balls across the course. The aim is less about winning and more about fostering teamwork.
“Most of our stuff is either them appointing one person to team up against somebody else from another team, or them working all together to accomplish the challenge,” Operation Manager and Support leader Kya Gresh said.
While the afternoon promises fun, prizes are also on the line. Teams that participate in peer-to-peer fundraising for ACRES are eligible for a grand prize: a weeklong stay at Hilton Head, South Carolina. Smaller sponsor-donated prizes and medals will be awarded to top teams of two and four.
Beyond the race itself, the event also highlights the broader work of ACRES, which provides support for neurodivergent individuals seeking to find and maintain employment. Bregar explained that while many have the skills to perform jobs, the real barriers often come from workplace environments that fail to accommodate sensory needs, flexible schedules or supportive management.
“There’s a difference between having the skills and then being employable,” Bregar said. “Management skills, the environment, noise levels — those are big factors. We work with employers to make sure accommodations are in place and help individuals build interview skills.”
The Amazing Race also creates opportunities for the wider community to connect with ACRES’ mission. Though organizers note that business sponsorships can be difficult to secure, they hope the event continues to grow.
Live music will add to the festive atmosphere, with local bands Biscuit Jam and Area 38 performing on the Tussey Mountain terrace throughout the afternoon. ACRES artisans will also have a booth on site featuring handmade soaps, embroidery, jewelry and plants created by participants in the program.
Teams can still sign up the day of the event. Registration is $50 for teams of four and $25 for teams of two.
“Just come on out and have a great Sunday afternoon,” Bregar said. “It’s a lot of fun. Cheer on some teams, enjoy the music and see what ACRES is all about.”
For more information or to register, visit acresproject.org.
