Volunteers needed for Turning Pointe's Naperville Pumpkin Race

Racers young and old and of all abilities will soon be launching decorated pumpkin "cars" down the racetrack for fun and glory at the sixth annual Naperville Pumpkin Races.

But not without a large crew of volunteers needed to help get the race underway.

The event, held Saturday, Oct. 29 at the Naperville Carillon adjacent to the Rotary Hill in downtown Naperville, needs folks to help with set up and take down, registration, pit row and test track helpers and people to serve as heat managers and course monitors during the races.

"This race is all about fun for all," says Carrie Provenzale, executive director of Turning Pointe Autism Foundation, presenters of the race. "The race began as a vocational project for our adult students. Now, it's become employment for our working adult employees who work all year assembling, packaging a shipping race kits to racers taking part in these events all over the country."

There's plenty of creativity and drama on board as pumpkins can compete for best decorations as well as their racing ability. A costume contest at 12:30 p.m. is also open to all and Pinot's Palette will offer a painting booth.

Food will be available by Relish Hot Dogs & Italian Beef Food Truck selling hot dogs, chili dogs, Italian beef and mac & cheese.

Moose & Me, a Naperville bakery employing workers of all abilities, will sell treats as well. Glowby the Bubbler will dazzle with bubble tricks galore.

We Grow Dreams Nursery is donating pumpkins for those who choose to build out their racers on site on the day of the race.

Free pumpkins will also be available at the Water Street Fall Family Fest on Saturday, Oct. 22, on Water Street in downtown Naperville.

Racers can order race-approved race kits and complete instructions from Turning Pointe Autism Foundation online at turningpointeautismfoundation.org/pumpkin-race/.

"This is a great sensory-friendly interactive event for all and a way for us to build awareness and new friends throughout the community," says Provenzale. "Volunteers always enjoy the event as much as the racers do. It's just a fun and funny day."

To volunteer, visit turningpointeautismfoundation.org/sign-up-to-volunteer/

The Naperville Pumpkin Race is sponsored in part by Gerald Cares, Assured Partners and a City of Naperville Special Events and Cultural Amenities Grant.

For more information on Turning Pointe Autism Foundation, visit turningpointautismfoundation.org.