Specialisterne Ireland: understand and utilising the unique abilities of Autistic

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from nearly four weeks ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, the Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania is an Erie County, Pennsylvania-based nonprofit that exists to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Erie, Crawford, Venango, and Mercer Counties...

A two-mile walk is held to increase awareness of Autism, fund programming, and activities for individuals with Autism in our community. 100% of the proceeds stay in our local area.

Why is it important to participate? Our Annual Walk for Autism is the Autism Society NWPA’s largest event of the year. The Walk gives us the ability to provide [events for individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders] throughout the year [including] Social Outings, ...LEGO Club, and Friends & Pals Teen Club. ...we are IN-PERSON for 2022 to host this annual empowering, fun ...event! We are asking [individuals] and ...fellow community members to register, donate, and join us on [the day] to make this the [best] Walk ever.

What’s Happening?

~Jumping Inflatable (weather permitting)

...
~Arts & Crafts and Kid’s Prize Wheel


~Theme Basket Auction (NEW 2022 – additional Deluxe Auction!)


~Autism Merchandise...

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania's Walk from about six months ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fA7cIILXSVA

[source: https://www.erienewsnow.com/events#!...2022-04-23T09]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about four weeks ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, Anaheim, California is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

Come join Aces for the annual Autism Speaks Walk in Anaheim. There will be ...music, art, ...and more!

Aces Cerritos will be meeting at 9:30 to register.

The opening ceremony will begin at 10:00...

Parent/caregiver must be present during the event.

Siblings are welcome to attend.

Here is a link to a video on the annual Autism Speaks Walk, held in Anaheim, California from nearly three years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...5924403d4b48&q

[source: https://www.acesaba.com/events/autism-speaks-walk/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about four weeks ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the south, the Autism Society of Alabama is Jefferson County, Alabama-based nonprofit that attempts to improve services for individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Alabama...

Those who want [get involved in] Autism Awareness Month can do so by walking, running – and even eating.

On April 16, the Autism Society of Alabama will host its Walk for Autism and [running event] in Hoover.

The [Jefferson County] event is one of 16 that will be held around the state in April.

Early registration is now available at www.walkforautismAL.com and includes a $5 discount for people who sign up before the day of the event. Teams and individuals can participate.

The Walk for Autism brings together [many] people across Alabama [for a good cause]. In addition to the walk and run, the event includes a resource fair for [individuals impacted by Autism] to get information on services available in their areas as well as fun activities for children.

Each of the 16 participating cities will present trophies for Top Fundraiser and Most Team Spirit. Participants can fundraise through sponsorships, donations on the FirstGiving page, or securing pledges and tracking their steps with Fitbit.

Incentives for fundraisers include a pair of custom-designed Nike running shoes.

Those interested in setting up a page can visit www.firstgiving.com/autismalabama for more details...

Proceeds from the Walk for Autism benefit the mission and projects of the Autism Society of Alabama. Current projects include the Autism Respite program, in which 80 families in four cities throughout the state will receive 20 hours of respite; the Library Collection Initiative, which assists each Alabama county in the maintenance of an autism section in one or more public libraries within the county; and the Autism Friendly Campaign, in which businesses provide tolerable sensory settings, accommodating environments and assistance for families with a member who has autism spectrum disorder...

here is a link to a video on the Autism Society of Alabama's running event form about four-and-a-half years ago: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...rnal_log_id=67 fe6fcc-30b6-48c8-85e8-1222c43a63a8&q

[source: https://www.otmj.com/autism-awareness-month/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over four weeks ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

Toys R Us has partnered with Autism Speaks Canada for over a decade...

...Toys"R"Us U.S. is a long time sponsor of Autism Speaks U.S. and with Toys"R"Us Canada can now make a difference right across North America.

1. Every March and April we run a ...campaign where we sell Autism Speaks puzzle pieces in our stores and online.
2. We are a National sponsor for the Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada program.
3. We provide French translation services to Autism Speaks Canada.

...Toys"R"Us is a proud National Sponsor of Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada.

Toys"R"Us teams will be walking in the following events to raise [Autism] awareness and funds...

McGill University – Tomlinson Fieldhouse, Montreal, QC	May 27th
Bell Sensplex, Ottawa, ON	June 3rd
Rundle Park, Edmonton, AB	September 9th

• Canadian Walk events begin in May and run through October.
• Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us Employees participate in these events by forming walk teams in their local communities, hosting interactive tented areas that feature the "Ten Toys That Speak To Autism" and raising even more funds for Autism Speaks Canada.
• Toys"R"Us mascot Geoffrey the Giraffe makes special appearances at all Walks, encouraging participants to help solve the autism puzzle...

Here is a link to a video on the Autism Speaks Canada Walks from just under a year ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0db2NH4Vek

[source: https://www.toysrus.ca/en/folder?cid...-donate-autism ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over four weeks ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the southwest, Miami, Florida is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

The South Florida Chapter of Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, will hold its 2017 Autism Speaks Miami Walk event on April 2nd at the Doral Grand Central Park. Proceeds from the Miami annual walk will [go to] Autism Speaks...

The Miami event will include a 2 mile walk, followed by ceremonies which would include sponsors, community leaders, with plenty of entertainment and sensory-friendly children’s activities...

In recent years, Autism Speaks has made a significant impact in the South Florida area. Through its Local Grants Program, Autism Speaks has provided funding to innovative local service providers, such as Miami Children’s Museum. Autism Speaks science grants have supported research at local research institutions, including University of Miami and Florida International University.

“The Miami Autism Speaks Walk is helping fund vital services and innovative solutions that improve quality of life for people with autism in our community,” said Hector Ponte, Area President for Wells Fargo...

Alpha Xi Delta proudly serves as the North American sponsor of Autism Speaks Walk. Since 2009, Alpha Xi Delta has raised more than $5 million dollars for Autism Speaks, and they currently participate at Autism Speaks Walk events nationwide. Alpha Xi Delta’s work not only generates vital funds for autism research, but also raises awareness for autism. On World Autism Awareness Day in 2015, they lit [many] buildings blue as part of Autism Speaks’ Light It Up Blue campaign in honor of the millions people affected by autism worldwide.

“We’re very proud of the work our members have helped Autism Speaks accomplish,” said Elysia Gallivan, Executive Director of Alpha Xi Delta. “...We’re excited for the next phase of our partnership as we further commit ourselves to Autism Speaks’ signature fundraising and awareness event.”

Local sponsors of the walk include: South Florida Ford, Sedano’s Supermarkets, IMUSA, City of Doral, Brightstar, Wells Fargo, TD Bank, MasTec, BDO, FedEx, FPL, DHL, Greenberg Traurig, Patricia & Robert Cambo, Cindy & Mike Moran, Baptist Health South Florida, SunTrust, Perry Ellis, and Norwegian Cruise Lines

Here is a link to a video from the Greater Miami Autism Speaks Walk from about five-and-a-half years ago:

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=10158577059575085

[source: https://www.ellatino.com/news/0217/0...aks_walk.shtml ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over four weeks ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the southwest, the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center is a Maricopa County, Arizona-based nonprofit that attempts to advance research and provide a lifetime of support for individuals with autism and their families...

n Sunday, October 23, more than 20,000 people from across the state gathered at Tempe Beach Park in support of the Autism Speaks Walk in Partnership with SARRC. The annual event raised an estimated $875,000 that will go toward supporting autism programs and research. Half of all monies raised during the walk will stay in Arizona. It is the state’s largest annual autism awareness event.

...Dr. Daniel Openden, SARRC’s president and CEO [said:] “Events like the Autism Speaks Walk not only promote awareness about autism spectrum disorders but also raise funds for critical research and programs that help individuals with autism better access our community. SARRC would like to thank all those who supported the walk, including our many sponsors, thousands of participants and the dozens of resource booths that provide valuable information for our attendees.”

Dr. Openden added that, because of the surge in research, awareness and programs geared toward autism, there is a lot of hope for children, adolescents and adults. “Early identification and intervention remain critical for producing the best long-term outcomes,” he said. “But many adolescents and adults benefit from SARRC’s programs as well and are demonstrating they can learn the necessary skills to participate more fully in the community, find a job and live independently.”

Added to a 1-mile and 5K walk options at the event, there was also a resource fair for attendees. The event’s major sponsors included Sprouts, MC Companies, 3TV, Arizona Ford Dealers and Silver Tree Special Needs Planning.

“I’m always struck by the diversity of families and walk teams, not to mention all of the sponsors, providers, performers and more, who contribute to the walk,” Dr. Openden said. “This is unlike any of our other events because it brings together those who are affected by autism with those that support them.”

The next fundraising event for the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) will be its Annual Community Breakfast taking place in spring 2017...

Here is a link to a video from the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center on the Greater Phoenix Autism Speaks Walk from about six years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...b47e7b23c362&q

[source: https://www.autismcenter.org/autism-...-raises-875000 ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over four weeks ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the southeast, Norfolk County in Massachusetts is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

...[Duron Harmon of the Patriots NFL team] spent the morning visiting students at Boston Higashi School in [Norfolk County], which works with students and young adults with autism. During a gym class, Duron watched as the students showed off the skills learned in their most recent unit: rollerblading.

As the students zoomed around the gym, Duron grabbed their hands and walked with them, smiling and laughing as he tried to keep up.

"I can honestly say this is probably the best school visit that I've ever been a part of it," Duron said. "It really touched my heart, and I'm just so gracious and so blessed to be able to take part in this today."

April is Autism Awareness Month, and the cause is personal for Duron. His 9-year-old nephew, Nic, has autism, and Duron has taken his platform in the NFL and turned it into a chance to shine a light on autism awareness. For two seasons, Duron used the NFL's "My Cause, My Cleats" initiative to highlight Autism Speaks.

"It meant a lot because in all honestly because, in all of the kids, I saw my nephew. I think that's why the visit was so meaningful," he said. "I see a school that really focuses on the needs of kids just like my nephew. You can see the progression of all the kids and how well they spoke, how much fun they were having, how they were interacting with each other and it just lets me know that this is a special place."

At the end of the class, Duron addressed the entire school at an assembly...

"...You guys are here because you're doing everything you can to be better and to continue to improve," Duron said. "I want to tell you guys that you might be a fan of me, but I'm a bigger fan of you guys. Continue to listen to your teachers, continue to improve and just know that you'll always have a fan out there in Duron Harmon."

That message is hugely important, according to Principal Deborah Donovan.

"Each and every day, my kids have little moments. Maybe somebody learns how to tie their shoes. Somebody learns to spell a word. Somebody learns left from right. Somebody learns a new vocational skill," she said. "To have a champion celebrate that, that means so very much."...

Here is a link to a video on the Greater Boston Autism Speaks Walk from over four years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...7a52f7df4f18&q

[source: https://www.patriots.com/news/duron-...wareness-month ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from yesterday was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the west, the Autism Society of Wa Spokane Chapter, is a Spokane, Wa.-based nonprofit that promotes lifelong community access for affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Spokane area...

Steps for Autism Walk

Shop vendor booths before and after the [running event]. Featuring interactive sensory activities will be available, ...autism friendly businesses, ...and more. Presented by [a number of organisations including] the Northwest Autism Center, The ISAAC Foundation and Autism Society of Washington Spokane Chapter. Proceeds are distributed equally among the three organizations. Volunteer opportunities, vendor spots and sponsorships available.

Here is a link to a video from Spokane's Autism Walk from over four years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch?ref=s...c91d94d1d4e6&q

[source: ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from a couple of days ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, Seminole County, Florida is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

Expanding its efforts to accommodate guests with special needs, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is partnering with Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, to make its iconic, kid-centric theme park a more welcoming place for guests with autism.

Working closely with Autism Speaks, the vacation resort #BuiltForKids currently is installing a large panel of hands-on, sensory-stimulating activities in a quiet space within its theme park, the first of several planned projects designed to make LEGOLAND Florida Resort a more autism-friendly destination [including for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.]

“Autism Speaks applauds the efforts of LEGOLAND Florida Resort to provide special accommodations so that guests on the autism spectrum can maximize their park experience,” said Karen Bacharach, senior director with Autism Speaks’ Southeastern Regional Office in Maitland, Fla. “When asked, our Central Florida volunteers were eager to offer some design considerations to help the resort be autism friendly.”

According to Aymee Good, brand manager at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, a recent refurbishment of the theme park’s Annual Pass processing center provided an ideal opportunity to create a safe, calming space for children with special needs, a project that quickly bloomed into multiple ideas among several departments to make the resort a more welcoming place for kids of all ages and abilities.

Under the partnership, Autism Speaks staff members and volunteers will consult on the development and installation of “quiet rooms” and other resort facilities designed to meet the needs of guests with autism. The organization also will help LEGOLAND Florida Resort create online “social stories” that will provide illustrated walkthroughs of its attractions, shows and other guest amenities, and will consult on other autism-friendly initiatives such as a park map designed for guests with special needs and possible revisions to its existing Guide for Guests with Disabilities.

To better educate LEGOLAND Florida Resort employees (known as “Model Citizens”) about the unique needs of guests on the autism spectrum, Autism Speaks staff members and volunteers will conduct training sessions at the resort at least twice a year and will supply educational material to be distributed to all new hires.

“We’re proud to say that we’re built for kids,” said Rex Jackson, director of Marketing & Sales at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. “By partnering with Autism Speaks and making these smart changes that will benefit so many families, we’re helping to ensure that our resort is truly built for all kids.”

...LEGOLAND Florida Resort will sponsor the Kids Zone area ...on Saturday, Nov. 12, during the Autism Speaks Walk at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs, Fla. The ...walks are an inspirational and impactful opportunity to raise money and awareness to help change the future for all those who struggle with autism...

Here is a link to a video from the Central Florida Autism Speaks Walk from nearly three years ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vF9tMhG6UHE&t=2s

[source: https://indyschild.com/legoland-part...s-with-autism/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over two months ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the southwest, the Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania is an Erie County, Pennsylvania-based nonprofit that attempts to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Northwestern Pennsylvania...

The Walk for Autism is our signature event which brings together [many] participants and funds approximately 55% of our annual budget to maintain and increase our therapeutic programs and educational opportunities for individuals [affected by Autism, inbcluding children with Autism Spectrum Disorders].

...The Walk would not be possible without [the] community [getting behind the Autism awareness event and fundraiser].

[Many] community members and businesses sponsored the 2022 Walk...

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania's annual Walk from about a year-and-a-half ago: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...6923b41ce5c2&q

[source: https://www.autismnwpa.org/main-event/walk-for-autism/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over two months ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the west, Seattle, Wa. is home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation...

The UW Autism Center works to increase knowledge and acceptance of [Autism Spectrum Disorders] and related developmental disabilities among professionals and the public. It aims to promote detection of [Autism Spectrum Disorders], inform the community of effective intervention[,] and to learn from community partners to increase the availability of innovative, effective, and supportive programs for individuals [affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.]

...The UW Autism Center participates in many community events including the Autism Speaks Walk...

Here is a link to a video from Seattle's Autism Speaks Walk from over a decade ago:
https://www.facebook.com/howard.mcom...22259061160579

[source: https://depts.washington.edu/uwautis...ityengagement/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over two months ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the west, the Autism Society of Washington Spokane Chapter is a Spokane, Washington-based nonprofit that provides services for individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Spokane area...

Riverfront Park Forestry Shelter

...This family–friendly annual event brings the community together in ...celebration of those [affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders]. Visit/shop vendor booths to before and after the race.

Interactive sensory activities will be available, as well as an opportunity to gather information about local ...programs, autism friendly businesses, providers and more.

Here is a link to photos from Spokane's 'Steps for Autism' Walk from over a year ago:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?...3802663&type=3

[source: https://shine1049.org/event/steps-fo...m-spokane-2021 ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about two-and-a-half months ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the northwest, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada is home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation...

...[Many] Edmontonians laced up and walked ...as part of the fifth annual “Walk Now for Autism Speaks” event, raising awareness and money for autism research and services.

Organizers say its the biggest walk to date.

...A number of teams contributed large amounts of money to the goal, after spending countless hours raising money in different ways.

“Those teams are doing bake sales, garage sales, and hot lunches at their children’s’ schools...” [Marcy Oakes-Henschel, events manager for Alberta with Autism Speaks Canada, said.]

“It shows you the heart of the autism community and what a difference we need to make.”

...“The funds that we raise here are so crucial,” Oakes-Henschel said.

“All the money is going to help so many [individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders].”

An autism diagnosis means a stream of appointments, life changes and challenges for [them.]

Edmonton Mill Woods Beaumont MP Mike Lake knows firsthand what that’s like – his 16-year-old son Jayden was diagnosed with autism when he was just two and a half years old.

“When you see Jayden and get a chance to meet with him, he’s an amazing kid in his own right. He’s got all sorts of skills and abilities and uniqueness’s to his character,” Lake said.

He says parents whose children are diagnosed with autism need to recognize and embrace the differences and uniqueness’s the child will have.

“A diagnosis of autism isn’t as bad down the road, it isn’t as bad as it seems when you first get the diagnosis,” Lake said.

“There are going to be challenges but there’s also a very supportive community out there that is willing to put their arms around you and embrace you as you walk through it.”

Lake said he loves seeing new faces and familiar faces come out to the annual walk, and says the autism community in Edmonton is a very encouraging and tight-knit group.

“There really is a bond that we have. We kind of know what each other is going through. Every person with autism is different but we do share that bond,” Lake said...

Here is a link to a video from Edmonton's Autism Speaks Canada Walk from over four years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/conradjr/vi...56662287235365

[source: https://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/thousand...ments-7.323681 ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about two-and-a-half months ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the southeast, the Leo Lion Club Foundation, Inc. is a Brooklyn, New York-based nonprofit that attempts to instruct valuable life skills by introducing art to children with Autism and building their self esteem. The nonprofit is committed to serving the community by improving the quality of life for all individuals with various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders...

Autism Speaks Walk
Sunday, October 9, 2022
Jones Beach...

Last year Eastern Suffolk BOCES was a Top Team Fundraiser for Autism Speaks with a total donation of over $7,600!

Thank you for your [efforts]!

Here is a link to a video on the recent New York City Autism Speaks Walk:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...57c3813c5193&q

[source: https://www.esboces.org/Autism_Speaks_Walk]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from just under a week ago was the Autism Society of Washington Spokane Chapter, a Spokane, Washington-based nonprofit that provides services for individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Spokane area.

To the east, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada is home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation...

LeverageTek was proud to ...participate in the Autism Speaks Canada Walk in Ottawa held Sunday, June 4th. The event was held ...in Kanata [a suburb of Ottawa] and participants walked 1km...

The fundraising goal for the event was $50,000 more than $70,000 was raised!

Funds collected from this event go ...[towards]:

• Access to tool kits for [individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders]
• Inclusive sports and recreation programs for all ages
• Accessibility to adult programming for people with autism
• Funding for training programs for [those closest to individuals affected by Autism]
• World-leading research, bringing us closer to personalized care...

Here is a link to a video from Ottawa's Autism Speaks Canada Walk from over four years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...6f70e8d6cc9e&q

[source: https://leveragetek.ca/en/leveragete...ada-walk-2017/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from yesterday was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, the Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania is an Erie County, Pennsylvania-based nonprofit that provides information and services specific to the local area...

The 18th annual Walk for Autism on Saturday morning figures to draw [many individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders] to Presque Isle State Park and raise around $120,000 for the Autism Society-Northwestern Pennsylvania.

On-site registration starts at 9:30 a.m. at Beach 11. Registration fee is $20 per person, though children ages 14 and under can walk for free. Participants can walk or use in-line skates, or ride along in strollers or wagons.

Pre-walk announcements will take place at 10:45 a.m. and the 2-mile walk will start at 11 a.m. There also will be inflatables, weather permitting; face painting; arts and crafts; a theme basket auction, and an autism merchandise booth. A light lunch will be provided to walk participants.

The event is the Autism Society's chief fundraiser, covering more than 60 percent of the nonprofit's annual expenses, executive director Tish Bartlett has said...

The walk serves to increase awareness of autism and fund projects and activities for individuals with autism in the Erie community...

Here is a link to a video on the Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania's annual Walk from a few years ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RevX8p4RoIU

[source: https://www.goerie.com/story/enterta...et/5335688007/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from just under a week ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the south, the Howard County Autism Society is an Ellicott City, Maryland-based nonprofit serves individuals with Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Howard County...

...[HCAS’] Every Step Counts Walk & [Run] has a new date: Saturday, November 19, 2022!

Each year, [HCAS’] Every Step Counts Walk & [Run] brings together those touched by Autism and members of the wider community in a supportive, energizing, and fun environment. The event features [a run and walk] as well as a shorter “stroll” for those who would like a shorter distance. ...Participants may elect to walk or run at Centennial Park on November 19th starting at 9:00am OR participate virtually at a time and location of their choosing.

The goal is to raise $125,000 toward programs and services for [the] local autism community...

A Walk/[Run] “village” will be offered to feature the event’s sponsors and offer ...costumed characters, and entertainment. Sponsors and community supporters will be recognized both on-site and via social media, putting participants in the center of the action as the event unfolds.

Together, We Can Make a Difference!...

Here is a link to a recent video from the nonprofit's 'Every Step Counts Walk & Run': https://www.facebook.com/watch?ref=s...1fe8d0f4dd66&q

[source: https://business.howardchamber.com/e...1-19-2022-4271 ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about a week ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, Columbus, Ohio is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

[The Columbus] Autism Speaks Walk ...[started] off at 9 a.m. with the national anthem sung by Sam Will, who is on the spectrum, and a whisper countdown.

The annual event sponsored by [a Television network] gives [those closest to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders] access to resources and a chance to [join one another] to learn, encourage, and just be in a safe space.

“I always like the fact you don’t have to apologize out here, you don’t have to be sorry, it’s she’s fine, she’s fine,” said one parent.

...“We’re still in the very beginning of [our journey living with Autism], ...it’s been [difficult] but [we] just [have to keep making an effort],” said Caitlin Pettis, whose son was diagnosed in the past year.

[Television] anchor and sports director Jerod Smalley emceed the event. [He] has worked with this organization for years. He says seeing so many more resources become available is rewarding.

“In order for people to be successful and navigate the things you have to navigate, with education and therapy, and aren’t very fun to talk about,” [he] said... “that’s a part of what makes this event so good.”

The walk also featured a festival ahead of time. Organizations that provide [individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders] with resources were out to offer help. Other organizations offered sensory activities...

Here is a link to a recent video on the Columbus, Ohio Autism Speaks Walk from nearly a month ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...4dfc65874d10&q

[source: https://www.newsbreak.com/news/27794...e-a-safe-space ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over a week ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the south, the Autism Society of North Carolina is a Wake County, North Carolina-based nonprofit that attempts to improves the lives of individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in North Carolina...

Step out to improve lives in the Greensboro Run/Walk for Autism on Saturday, Sept. 24.

The event at UNC-Greensboro will include a [running event] and a recreational ...run/walk.

Celebrate autism awareness and acceptance with music, refreshments, and vendor space that will showcase local businesses, service providers, ...resources, and sponsors.

Proceeds will fund local programs of the Autism Society of North Carolina...

Here is a link to a video on the Autism Society of North Carolina's annual Walk from a couple of years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/AutismSocie...81520016133235

[source: https://www.taylorsvilletimes.com/ev...lk-for-autism/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about two weeks ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, Iowa is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

Our Fundraising events are dedicated to supporting the needs of people with autism and their families throughout their life’s journey. These events bring together [those individuals closest to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders plus] service providers, and corporate sponsors... Funds raised help fuel innovative research, advocacy, and critical programs and services. Together, we are creating a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential.

Heartland Area Walks

Iowa Walk- September 25, 2022....

St. Louis Walk- October 8, 2022...

Kansas City Walk- October 29, 2022...

...Heartland Area Volunteer Opportunities

Together, there's no limit to what we can do...

Here is a link to a video from the Iowa Autism Speaks Walk from just over two years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...f3bc4716c980&q

[source: https://www.autismspeaks.org/heartland-area-events ]