Specialisterne Ireland: understand and utilising the unique abilities of Autistic

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

Autism Speaks [is going to] be holding its annual ...Autism Speaks Columbus Walk fundraiser in early October.

West Columbus participants may register as individuals, join existing teams or start a team of their own.

Although the event will be free, individual and team fundraising is encouraged and those raising $1,000 or more [are going to] be included in the Grand Club. The benefits of being in the club will include names or logo design on the event’s website, commemorative pin, and special recognition at the Awards Reception.

Fundraising prizes include light blue T-shirts sporting a white logo design, belt bags, cargo boxes, lapel pins and plush throws, insulated jackets, [and] JBL Headphones...

...An Autism Speaks Walk Team Village [is going to] have teams that have raised over $3,500 before October 6th, advertising their products and services by distributing promotional products such as promotional pens, hats, and tote bags.

Registration [is] open and kids’ activities [are going to start] at 9:00 am, followed by a Mission Moment at 10:00 am. The Walk will start at 10:30 am.

Special quiet spaces will be available for anyone with sensory sensitivities to go if they get overwhelmed.

Columbus Walk for Autism Speaks will be Sunday, October 8th beginning at ...Columbus Commons...

Here is a link to a video on the Columbus, Ohio Autism Speaks Walk from about a year ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0EYl5TFRtU

[source: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/o...-speaks-234203 ]

[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, Toronto, Ontario, Canada is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

Across the country, [many] Canadians [are going to,] between May and September this year [,] participate in Walk Now, the single most important annual fundraising initiative for Autism Speaks Canada (ASC)...

Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us are the national presenting sponsors of the Walk Now events. "Since our partnership with Autism Speaks Canada started [,]our employees and customers have helped build awareness and raise [significant funds] for Autism Speaks Canada," says Kevin MacNab, president of Toys "R" Us Canada and a member of the Autism Speaks Canada board of directors...

"We want to raise money to find the missing pieces [of the autism research puzzle], but we also want to raise awareness of autism throughout our communities," MacNab adds.

Paul Stellato agrees that Walk Now isn't just about raising funds. "It's about community, acceptance, integration – and a greater understanding of what autism means to the kids who have it, to [those closest to them] and to society as a whole going forward."

He ...says teams are getting bigger and bigger. Acting as this year's local walk ambassador in Toronto, Stellato is also the father of two young boys with autism.

"We realize that we're lucky," he says. "Our kids were diagnosed early, and we have the means to be able to [give] them ...therapy. But we also realize that, in Ontario anyway, there's not a lot of public money out there for these services.

"Learning about the work of Autism Speaks Canada made my wife and I think about where our boys would be if we didn't have the resources. We try to do as much as we can for [individuals] who may not be as fortunate as we are, so that these children all have access to more help."

...Among other fundraising and awareness initiatives Toys "R" Us sponsors is the "Puzzle Piece Campaign," when Autism Speaks puzzle pieces are sold in stores and online each March and April.

...Every year before the campaign, Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us associates receive training in the latest autism information, [MacNab] says. "I am incredibly proud of the enthusiasm and commitment of all our teams across Canada."

Here is a link to a video on the Toronto Autism Speaks Canada Walk from about seven months ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wZGtBaEUFw

[source: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/part...ticle23835964/ ]

[Visionary7903]

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

To the northeast, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada...

Big Joe and [the Ottawa Canadian Football League team's cheer squad] were in attendance for Ottawa’s Autism Speaks Canada Walk on June 4th in Kanata. They cheered on and high-fived the participants, while the [cheer squad got] the walkers [to do] a pre-walk warm-up. The walk is a way to bring people together to raise awareness and help raise funds for services for those with autism.

Here is a link to a video from Ottawa's Autism Speaks Walk from about five-and-a-half years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=search&v=10155675487408585&external_log_id=33 ac2ff1-e5f6-4467-a4bf-b4a35e9bd2b6&q=

[source: https://www.ottawaredblacks.com/2023...k-june-4-2023/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from two 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, Mecklenburg County in North Carolina is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

Northeastern University – Charlotte [is going to be] the Presenting Sponsor of the 2023 Charlotte [Autism Speaks] Walk to raise vital funds that fuel Autism Speaks’ mission of creating a more inclusive world for all people with autism. The Walk [is going to] be held tomorrow, Saturday, October 28^th, at Truist Field bringing the community together to take a stand, celebrate differences and promote the inclusion of people with autism in all aspects of society. Everyone is encouraged to participate. Whether you have autism, love someone who does, or are looking to support a diverse, accepting and kind community – you’re invited! There are many ways to participate nationwide.

“...building relationships with our communities is a guiding value for Northeastern University’s global university system and its stakeholders,” said Carmen Sceppa, dean of the Bouvé College of Health Sciences. “I’m so pleased to see Northeastern University Charlotte teaming up with Autism Speaks for this year’s Walk. Together, I know they will put on a great event and provide a safe ...environment for those with autism spectrum and [those individuals closest to them].”

Here is a link to a video on the Autism Speaks Walk held in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina late last year:
https://www.facebook.com/watch?ref=search&v=2154539351549316&external_log_i d=1f758a93-7b2c-4e3c-b89c-8b03c8d3a4d6&q=

[source: https://www.charlottestories.com/202...oogle_vignette ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from almost 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, Seminole County in Florida is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

The annual [Autism Speaks Walk] took place Saturday morning ...in Altamonte Springs.

Channel 9 reporter Nick Papantonis emceed the event.

The walk raises money for autism research and to ...provide services ...for people with autism.

The group’s website says the walk raised [a significant amount.]

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Speaks Walk, held in Seminole County, Florida, from about two months ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch?ref=search&v=6982337871860347&external_log_i d=2cdc0296-1d17-4c06-9224-5c00be85149b&q=

[source: https://www.wftv.com/news/local/thou...O4Z2AKSLEHQNM/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from almost 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.

In Australia, the Autism Society of Western Australia is a Perth, Western Australia-based nonprofit that is the Australia's largest specialist lifespan organisation providing services to people with Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Western Australia...

When the Weltens attended the Autism Association of [Western Australia]’s Autism in Cricket [Introductory] Session last year, they had no idea of the lasting impact the morning would have on their son, Billy.

The 8-year-old’s older brother already played for his local cricket club and Billy had been involved in [the nonprofit's] sessions [for children aged 7-10], but [those closest to Billy] were looking for ways to assist their club in [taking into account] Billy’s additional needs.

The [Introductory] Session provided the Weltens with all the information they needed to work with the club, and Billy’s mum Natalie said it was refreshing to have the club be so receptive to children of all abilities.

“It is extremely important for the children to see each other engaging and having fun playing cricket together as Community sport is a tricky one to combat within the autism spectrum because some people struggle with the social aspect, along with the expectations if you lose,” she said.

“Although cricket is a team sport, it also enables [children] to set individual goals and allow themselves flexibility within the game and the positions they play on field.

“The Autism in Cricket [Introductory] Session was amazing last year, and it was lovely to see the Autism Association Therapists and friendly faces as we walked in.

“It was also very beneficial speaking with other parents on the day and it was great to see a few of the club representatives walking around and making the families feel comfortable.”

Natalie would recommend the session to other [individuals close to] children with autism as it encourages opportunities to experience the fun, friendships, and health benefits that cricket can provide.

“The main reason I would encourage [others] to attend [these sessions] is because it is fully inclusive,” she continued.

“Being at the WACA Ground surrounded by other parents who have autistic children and who understand exactly what every other parent goes through with the challenges we face felt like a really safe and non-judgemental space.”

The 2023 Autism in Cricket [Introductory] Session hosted by the Autism Association of [Western Australia] and [also involving] the [Western Australia] Cricket Foundation, [is going to] be held at the WACA Ground on Saturday September 2...

Here is a link to some photos from the Autism Society of Western Australia's 'Autism in Cricket' program:

https://www.autism.org.au/cricket/gallery/

[source: Come and Try Session providing a safe space for all – WA Cricket Foundation ]

[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 southeast, Western Connecticut is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

Sunday April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day, ...[The] 4th Annual [Western Connecticut] Autism Speaks ...Walk [and team fundraiser is going to be held] from 12-5pm ...in New Milford [, Connecticut.]

Over the past seven years the team "Be Aware, Care & Share" has raised just over $30,000 with this event and the walk. There will be lots of raffles, auction items and more! All while giving attendees the opportunity to help spread the word about Autism, Autism Speaks and the walk...all on World Autism Awareness Day!

...Ann Jordan, co-chair for the Western [Connecticut] Autism Speaks Walk[, said:] "By volunteering our time, and walking for Autism Speaks, we are going to ensure that all individuals on the autism spectrum, including our son[,] live the lives they deserve! Raising funds for Autism Speaks is something our son enjoys doing..."

...Western [Connecticut] Autism Speaks Walk- Team “Be Aware, Care & Share”...

Here is a link to photos from the Western Connecticut Autism Speaks Walk from almost five years ago:
2019 10th annual Western Connecticut Autism Speaks Walk photos by Helen Taylor

[source: https://www.hamlethub.com/new-fairfi...-awareness-day ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over a week ago was Ottawa, Onatario, 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, Houston, Texas is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

Step into a kinder world ...at Sugar Land Town Square for the Autism Speaks Houston [Walk] on January 20!

...[you can get] a commemorative shirt and medal to flaunt your accomplishment!

...No matter where you are—your neighborhood, on a treadmill, or in the park—your steps forward fuel progress towards inclusion and understanding.

Gear up for an epic day to remember and hurry, registration wraps on January 18!

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Speaks Walk held in Houston, Texas from about four years ago

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzxx8vG6BFE

[source: https://www.letsdothis.com/us/e/auti...-8k5k1k-209576 ]

[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 southwest, the Arkansas Autism Foundation is a Little Rock, Arkansas-based nonprofit that provides autism friendly events and assists individuals impacted by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Arkansas...

One of [the university in Arkadelphia, Arkansas] student organizations, Chi Mu women’s social club, [is going to] host its first Autism Awareness Walk on Saturday, April 13, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Arkadelphia High School football stadium in honor of Autism Awareness Month. The walk will raise money for the [AAF.]

Devon Carlson and Terri Roberts, representatives from the [AAF,] will be guest speakers to teach participants more about autism and how to love and accept those with autism.

Participants may sign up as individuals or as a team of five. A ticket purchase includes admittance to the walk, a lunch of hot dogs, water, chips and cookies and the opportunity to hear from guest speakers. A ticket purchase can also include a shirt commemorating the event for a few dollars more.

Bethany Crawley, a sophomore music education major from [northeast Arkansas] and current philanthropy chair for Chi Mu, is largely responsible for coordinating the details of the walk.

“I’m going into the education field, so I [am going to] encounter autistic children, and I have [already been] working with [children]...,” Crawley said. “It’s such a big deal that needs to be addressed. Yeah, these kids are different, but they still deserve love and to be loved on. It’s not something that needs to be fixed, but it’s something that needs to be accepted.

“The money that we’ll raise is going to ...the Arkansas Autism Foundation, and they do things that give autistic children opportunities to be involved, socialize and feel loved,” Crawley continued. “It’s so much bigger than Chi Mu and [Arkadelphia]. We’d love to see the broader ...Arkadelphia communities join us and get involved in this cause.”

“Many people [encounter individuals, including children, affected by] autism spectrum disorders ...regularly but do not know how to positively engage in such encounters,” said Adam Wheat, guest experience coordinator for Ouachita and Chi Mu staff sponsor. “Organizations like the [AAF] and events like these provide spaces to educate and encourage. So your presence expresses your willingness to learn and your support for those who may feel alone in their journey.

“Those with [Autism Spectrum Disorders] see the world differently and can broaden our own perspectives if we give them the chance,” Wheat added. “Walking may not seem like much, but it’s a step into the conversation, which is the beginning of all important change.”

Tickets are available for purchase online... Tickets also may be purchase by reaching out to any Chi Mu member. For a team of five, the cost is $75 or $100 to include shirts. For individual participants, the cost is $20 or $25 to include a shirt. For those who are unable to attend the event but would like to contribute to the cause, shirts are available for purchase for $25 and donations also are accepted...

Here is a link to a video from the AAF's Festival and Walk from almost five years ago:

https://www.facebook.com/arkansasautismfoundation/videos/748646742203235

[source: https://obu.edu/stories/news/2019/04...k-april-13.php ]

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

Our Fundraising events are dedicated to ...the needs of [individuals] with autism and [those closest to them] throughout their life’s journey. These events bring together people with autism and [those closest to them including] service providers, and corporate sponsors in a network of friendship and support. 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.

Broward Walk - Sunday, October 1, 2023 at FLA Live Arena...
Tampa Walk - Sunday, November 5, 2023 at Raymond James Stadium...
Central Florida Walk - Saturday, November 11, 2023 at Cranes Roost Park (Goal: $130K)
Miami Walk - Sunday, November 12, 2023 @Miami-Dade Fair and Expo Center...
Palm Beach Walk - Sunday, March 3, 2024 at Myers Amphitheatre...
Autism Speaks Miami Gala - Saturday, March 16, 2024 at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami...

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Speaks Walk held in Seminole County, Florida from about two months ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=search&v=6982337871860347&external_log_id=ed4 4a61a-c80c-4e09-95dc-911b506a814d&q=

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

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from almost 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, St. Louis is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

...We [are going to] be covering different [individuals impacted by Autism] who are [going to be at the St. Louis Autism Speaks Walk] and show how Autism Speaks has impacted their lives. Sara Wylie says Autism Speaks and a local dentist has made her life much easier.

Sara Wylie worried about taking her son Ethan to the dentist for years. He was diagnosed with Autism when he was two. The first time she took him to the dentist he was overwhelmed by the lights, noises and smells of the dentist office. However, Sarah didn't give up on her son's oral health.

She followed a plan provided by the Autism Speaks took kit and worked with Bergman Family Dental in Ballwin to get him in the dentist chair. It took [a number of visits] for Ethan to become comfortable at the dentist. Sarah credits Dr. Bergman and staff for their diligent and patient work with their son. Ethan, 12, now has braces and is more than excited to show off his beautiful smile. His Autism Speaks St. Louis Walk Team is called Smiley Wylie Club.

[The St. Louis Autism Speaks Walk is going to] take place on Saturday, October 13th at 10 a.m. at Forest Park...

Here is a link to a video on the St. Louis Autism Speaks Walk from about five years ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQ6StTCnW88

[source: https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/lo...e/63-600657777 ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about two 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 southeast, Boston, Massachusetts is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

This past weekend members of the [Boston University Center for Autism Research Excellence (CARE)] lab attended the Autism Speaks Walk of Greater Boston. They spoke with many [individuals impacted by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders] about the current research we are doing and had lots of fun doing face paint...

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Speaks Walk, held in Boston, Massachusetts, from about four months ago:

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=333579529341103

[source: https://www.bu.edu/autism/2023/10/17...aks-walk-2023/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about four 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, Toronto, Ontario, Canada is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

The 13th annual Autism Speaks Canada Walk takes place this Sunday, June 2, ...in Toronto. A ...walk around Toronto's City Hall, the event brings together ...individuals, friends, coworkers and communities to celebrate with one another and raise funds and awareness for individuals with autism and [those closest to them.] Under the theme 'Powered by Love', the walk is expected to attract [many] people in Toronto.

"Our walks directly impact the lives of individuals and [those individuals closest to them,]" said Jill Farber, executive director for Autism Speaks Canada. "We are so grateful for the work of our volunteers and the support we've received from our partners and friends, including Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us Canada. Through these walks and their in-store campaigns, Toy"R"Us Canada plays a pivotal role in helping us improve access to important resources and services for families. We couldn't ask for a better partner."

Held in numerous cities across Canada, Autism Speaks Canada Walks is the signature fundraising program for Autism Speaks Canada. Since the first walk, they have raised [significant funds.]

Walkers are encouraged to raise funds and enjoy the day complete with family-fun activities, quiet zone, an ASC Connect resource fair and, of course, the three kilometer walk. All participants who raise $150 or more will receive a commemorative Tommy Hilfiger 2019 ASC WALK T-shirt.

Other Walk sponsors of the walk and ASC include Cineplex, Kernels Extraordinary Popcorn and local sponsors EllisDon, Oracle RMS, [and] TMDL...

Here is a link to a video on Toronto's Autism Speaks Canada Walk from about 7 months ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7vzkUrit9c

[source: https://www.newswire.ca/news-release...863884955.html ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from a day ago was Toronto, 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 northeast, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada...

Big Joe and [the Ottawa-based CFL team's cheerleaders] were in attendance for Ottawa’s Autism Speaks Canada Walk on June 4th in Kanata. They cheered on and high-fived the participants, while the [cheerleaders were involved in getting those impacted by Autism at the Autism Speaks Canada Walk to do a] pre-walk warm-up. The walk is a way to bring people together to raise awareness and help raise funds for services for those with autism.

Here is a link to a video on Ottawa's Autism Speaks Canada Walk from about two years ago:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFOf8eD5PHA&list=PLj1nAfNsHPvFOnz4kls85zxo nSOR2HCjE&index=29

[source: https://www.ottawaredblacks.com/2023...k-june-4-2023/ ]

[Visionary7903]

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

To the southwest, Heartspring is a Sedgwick County, Kansas-based nonprofit that provides services to individuals with various challenges. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders...

During the month of April, Patterson Legal [attempted to raise] money for Heartspring’s Austism Care Walk through the Puzzle Pal program. Individuals could purchase a Puzzle Pal for $1 and [be] an autism awareness advocate.

The 2019 Care Walk event raised [a significant amount] for Heartspring Autism Services to provide much needed services to local children impacted by autism...

Here is a link to a video on Heartspring's annual Autism Care Walk from about a year ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=eTJHGhf2g8M

[source: https://pattersongivesback.org/heart...e-pal-program/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from almost a week ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada is also 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-Dayton Chapter is a Dayton, Ohio-based nonprofit that provides free monthly outings and activities for individuals with Autism, and those closest to them, in a sensory-friendly environment. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders residing in Montgomery, Miami, Greene, Darke and Preble counties...

[Individuals impacted by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, were there on] Saturday... to raise money, awareness and acceptance for autism.

The Autism Society of Dayton held its annual ...walk and run at the Payne Recreation Center in Moraine on Saturday, April 29.

“Everybody just being here, it’s awesome,” event participant Austin Kozee said. “I love this event. I love everything about it. I’ve been here for a while, like doing this event.”

The [Autism Walk] is the Autism Society’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

...Before the walk/run took place, people could stop by a tent full of tables with community resources for [individuals impacted by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.]

Here is a link to a video from an Autism Society-Dayton Chapter sensory-friendly event from about two days ago:

https://www.facebook.com/jamiemcox31/videos/1855761878218794

[source: https://www.wdtn.com/news/local-news...nce-of-autism/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about a week ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada is also 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 Inland Empire is a Riverside County, California-based nonprofit that attempts to provide services for individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Inland Empire region of California...

The Autism Society Inland Empire is hosting its annual Autism Acceptance Walk and Resource Fair ...on Saturday to raise acceptance, awareness and funds.

The event [is going to] include a walk, resource fair, ...and entertainment like inflatable attractions, crafts and characters. It [is] also [going to] feature “The Marketplace,” [something that] allows minors with autism to learn about business ownership.

Registration to participate in the walk starts at $15, but people with autism can attend for free. The Autism Society Inland Empire expects [many] people at the event this year. You can register, make a donation, sign up to volunteer and/or become a sponsor...

All funds from the walk go to helping local [individuals impacted by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders] in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, according to the Autism Society Inland Empire.

The event is being held ...at the ...[local community amphitheater] ...on Saturday...

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Society Inland Empire's Programs from about two months ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-emA5p2gnTA

[source: https://www.desertsun.com/story/news...y/71401689007/ ]

[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 east, Autisme Montreal is a Montreal, Quebec, Canada-based nonprofit that provides services for individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Montreal...

For children on the autism spectrum, verbal communication can sometimes be difficult.

To [get] children [to] communicate their feelings and needs at recess, the Lester B. Pearson School Board is installing communication stations in the playgrounds of all of its elementary schools -- a first in Canada.

Each board has pictures showing ...expressions, gestures, symbols, and words in English and French.

"Students can point to the pictures, they can use the words on the pictures, in order to request, ...to make a comment, to be silly, to describe," said Alyssa Ohberg, a speech and language pathologist with the school board.

Smaller versions of the tool are already used in classrooms, but the outdoor stations mean children can leave their communications devices behind during recess.

"It's something they use on a regular basis," said Katie Cohene, an autism consultant. "What's new is [that it is not up to] them. We're putting them in the environment; we're making those modifications so they don't need to be responsible for carrying them around with them, while [they may be playing with their peers.]"

The school board is sharing the prototype and its experience with the communication stations with other English-language school boards throughout Quebec, and there are plans to install them in some municipal parks.

The idea is low-tech, but those working with children with autism say it helps make the playground a more inclusive space.

They also say it can be a helpful tool for any student, and the hope is it will help reduce stigma.

"It's accessible for all the students to use it," said Ohberg, "and it makes it something that's just part of our playground. It's something anybody can use, and anybody can refer to, anybody can point to."

Here is a link to a video on the Autisme Montreal's Carmen-Lahaie Walk for Autism in Place du Canada from April last year:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MatbR7W31q8&t=15s

[source: https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/a-first-...tism-1.6449312 ]

[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 east, Montreal, Quebec, Canada is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada...

This year, Inspirations and the [English Montreal School Board (EMSB) are going to] be walking at the Autism Speaks Canada Montreal Walk on June 11!

We welcome you to [be part of] the Inspirations-EMSB team, chaired by Alana Goodings, teacher at Edward Murphy Elementary School, and walk with us. This fun-filled and [sensory]-friendly event takes place on a leisurely Sunday morning at the Dawson College campus.

[Be there] and meet the community, engage with various resources, all on hand to share their services, and dance to the tunes of The Beat 92.5, MC’d by Inspirations’ own Mark Bergman. ...all for an important cause...

Here is a link to a video on Montreal's Autism Speaks Canada Walk from about four months ago:

https://www.facebook.com/AutismSpeaksCanadaMontreal/videos/641939541206706

[source: https://inspirationsnews.com/inspira...-montreal-walk ]

[Visionary7903]

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

To the southeast, Greater Boston is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

On October 6, the Conventures team [was at the] Autism Speaks ...walk at Boston Common. With [many] walkers raising [a significant amount,] the event is dedicated to improving the lives of people with autism.

Here is a link to a video on the Autism Speaks Walk held in Boston from about 9 years ago:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkKm_xiT2Vo

[source: https://www.conventures.com/portfoli...aks-walk-2019/ ]