Vaughan Lazar, co-founder and president of Pizza Fusion, recently started the Fusion Extreme Team, an eco-friendly running team aimed at helping athletic enthusiasts achieve their goals while committing to saving lives and the planet through its various philanthropic efforts. The Fusion Extreme Team is currently raising money for Autism Speaks through training for the Seattle Rock n' Roll marathon, which is scheduled to take place Saturday, June 27, 2009 in Seattle, Washington.

"After completing four marathons myself and raising money for various causes around the country over the last four years, I wanted to start a team that could build on what I enjoy so much," Lazar says. "Together, we'll raise more money for philanthropies while providing members the support, motivation, and coaching necessary for completing such races."

With more than 50 members already enrolled, the Fusion Extreme Team consists of Pizza Fusion co-workers, friends, and South Florida athletes. The team is striving to raise approximately $20,000 for Autism Speaks before the Seattle Marathon.

Autism Speaks is the nation's largest autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.

For more information on the Fusion Extreme Team, visit: www.fusionextremeteam.com.