4/14/2025
IHRA Events
Bonne Terre Drag Strip to Host 10th Annual Autos 4 Autism
BONNE TERRE, MO — Autos 4 Autism was expected to be a one-time event to be held at Bonne Terre Drag Strip.
Coinciding with the start of drag racing season in April, which is also Autism Awareness Month, it will become a 10th annual event this Saturday, April 19.
It is described as a drag racing event which increases funding to help individuals with autism learn vocational and social skills through Visions of Hope Training Program. Tonya Johnson, Board President for Hope 4 Autism, explained the Bonne Terre races have become the biggest fundraiser of the year for the program.
“I thought it would be a one-time thing,” Johnson said. “We were very blessed that first year and over the years it’s grown where a lot of people know us from Autos 4 Autism.”
It’s a cause embraced by IHRA Division Director Staci Kettles who has become a huge supporter of the Autos 4 Autism event. Johnson praised Kettles and the staff at Bonne Terre Drag Strip for all they’ve done to help the program.
“I was a spectator at Bonne Terre when it was a sand drags track,” Johnson said. “They promote it and everybody asks about it. Staci grew up a drag racer and she has always welcomed me with open arms. She’s helped us so much.”
Many in the racing community have embraced the event. There is a separate Facebook page devoted to Autos 4 Autism, while the Hope 4 Autism website gives greater detail about the overall program.
Johnson became involved in the cause through one of her best friends who co-founded Hope 4 Autism. The program serves teens and young adults, and helps find ways they learn and the areas they excel at.
They’re empowered through vocational and social opportunities to help them lead a fuller life. There are different ways you can get involved in supporting this great program.
Check out the Autos 4 Autism Facebook page and the Hope 4 Autism website for more information about this program. Bonne Terre Drag Strip has more great events coming up. Keep up with the latest news on the track’s Facebook page.
Submitted By: Jeff Birchfield
Article Media
