This October, join us in celebrating 15 years of Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI) by walking or running 80,000 steps. Together, we’re aiming to raise €150,000 to train 6 new life-changing autism assistance dogs.
Every step you take will bring hope to families still waiting for their lifeline.
Why Your Steps Matter
- Right now, only 1 in 3 families who apply for an autism assistance dog will receive one.
- Demand has surged by 53% in the last two years, but without more funding, too many parents hear the word “no.”
- It costs €25,000 to train just one dog — covering two years of specialist training, veterinary care, and lifelong family support for an average 10-year working life.
Step up this October for Zoe, Keelan, and countless other children waiting for their life-changing assistance dog.
What You’ll Get
✅ A free AADI challenge pack, including your 80K in October t-shirt
✅ Access to our private Facebook group for encouragement, fundraising tips, and community celebrations
✅ The chance to be part of something bigger, every step, every euro, changes lives
80K in October – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the 80K in October Challenge?
It’s simple: walk or run 80,000 steps during the month of October to raise funds for Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland. That’s around 2,600 steps a day — perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
2. How do I register?
You can register for free on our iDonate event page. Once you sign up, you’ll receive your welcome pack and t-shirt.
3. Does it cost anything to take part?
No — it’s completely free to join! We simply ask that you set up a fundraising page and share your journey with friends and family to help us raise vital funds.
4. What do I get when I register?
Participants receive:
- A free AADI challenge t-shirt 👕
- A welcome pack
- Access to our private Facebook group for support, tips, and encouragement all month long
5. When will I receive my t-shirt/welcome pack?
Once you’ve completed registration, we’ll post your pack within 7 working days.
6. Do I need to prove I’ve done the steps?
No — this challenge is based on trust. Share your progress with us in the Facebook group if you’d like, but there’s no formal check-in.
7. How do I track my steps?
You can use a smartwatch, fitness tracker, pedometer, or a step-counting app on your phone. You’ll also receive a step tracker sheet in your welcome pack so you can log your progress manually if you prefer. Many challengers also share screenshots of their daily totals in the Facebook group for extra encouragement.
8. Do I have to do 80,000 steps in one go?
Not at all. The challenge is spread across the month — about 2,600 steps per day.
9. Can I run instead of walk?
Yes! Whether you walk, jog, or run, every step counts.
10. What if I miss a day?
That’s fine — you can make up the steps across the rest of the month.
11. Do I have to set up an iDonate fundraising page?
Yes, this makes it easy to collect donations and track your progress. It only takes a few minutes to set up.
12. Can I fundraise offline too?
Yes! If you’d prefer, you can use our sponsorship cards included in your pack to collect cash donations.
13. What if I can’t raise much money?
That’s okay. Every step and every euro makes a difference. Just do your best and know that you’re part of something bigger.
14. Can I take part outside of Ireland?
Yes — while AADI is based in Ireland, supporters anywhere can join in and log their steps.
15. What is the fundraising target?
This year we’re aiming to raise €150,000 to train 6 new autism assistance dogs. Each dog costs €25,000 to train — covering two years of training, veterinary care, and lifelong family support for an average 10-year working life.
16. Where does the money go?
All funds raised go directly to Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland, helping us train and support more highly skilled dogs for autistic children and their families.
17. Do you receive government funding?
No. AADI receives no government funding and relies entirely on public donations and fundraising events like this challenge.
18. Can children, families, or workplaces take part together?
Absolutely! Many families, schools, and workplaces take on the challenge as a group — it’s a fun way to stay active and make a difference together.
19. How do I join the Facebook group?
Once you register, you’ll receive a link to join our private Facebook group. It’s the best place to connect with other challengers, share your journey, and get daily encouragement.
20. Can I bring my dog along?
Definitely — we love to see your dogs join the walks. Share your photos in the group! 🐾
21. What happens if I don’t complete the 80,000 steps?
That’s okay. Just by taking part and fundraising, you’re making a difference. Do your best and enjoy being part of the challenge.