ABOUT WALK NOW FOR AUTISM
Walk Now for Autismis a unique fundraising event which is powered by volunteers and families with loved ones on the autism spectrum. The event creates a safe and fun day for families who are affected with autism. The day includes a 2 to 3 mile walk and Community Resource fair with educational sources, therapists, schools, recreational organizations, and creative child-friendly activities; a true “one-stop-shop” for families affected by autism. This year Toys“R”Us will have a tented space serving as home base for Geoffrey the Giraffe. Attendees will also be able to stop by and sign their children up for Geoffrey’s Birthday Club and pick up the “Ten Toys That Speak to Autism” handout, a list of toys that help build the skills of children with autism, created in collaboration with Autism Speaks.
Walk Now for Autism event is the signature fundraising event for Autism Speaks, raising more than $26 million last year, alone, to support autism research. These vital funds also raise awareness about the increasing prevalence of autism and the need for increased research funding to combat this complex disorder. This year, over 70 walks will take place across the United States, as well as Canada and the United Kingdom. To find a walk near you or for more information, please
visit www.walknowforautism.org
HEADS UP PALM BEACH & TREASURE COAST OF FLORIDA!
The 2009 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast Walk Now for Autism to benefit Autism Speaks has been scheduled for February 21, 2009 on Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach, with a satellite walk at Jensen Beach High School in Jensen Beach. The Walk Committee is being chaired by Susan Maxwell of Jensen Beach and Parenting Special Needs contributing writer, Marcia Weinstein, of Vero Beach. The planning committee has had its first meeting, and plans are underway for the event kickoff luncheons in November.
Over the next couple of months, publicity material and team captain packets will be assembled and distributed. If you are interested in forming a team for the 2009 WalkNow for Autism or joining the planning committee, please contact us at treasurecoast@autismspeaks.org. For more information, please visit us on the web at www.walknowforautism.org.
Toys“R”Us, Toys“R”Us Children’s Fund and Parade Magazine proudly serve as national sponsors of the Autism Speaks Walk Now for Autism program. For information about becoming a sponsor for the 2009 Treasure Coast Walk Now for Autism contact treasurecoast@autismspeaks.org or call 800-610-6227.