Press Release
Contact: Hannah Henning
Phone: 316.634.8812
Email: hhenning@heartspring.org
For Immediate Release
2016/04/15
Heartspring to host the largest autism awareness walk in Kansas
Wichita, Kan.— The Heartspring Community of Autism Resources and Education (CARE) Program will bring together thousands of autism advocates at the ninth annual Autism CARE Walk, presented by Cox Communications. The event will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 23, 2016, downtown at the WaterWalk with the walk beginning at 10:00 a.m.
The Autism CARE Walk has grown from nearly 500 participants in its first year in 2008 to more than 5,000 participants at the 2015 event. The increased support over the years has allowed the Heartspring CARE Program to expand its services and programs with some areas doubling or tripling the number of children impacted by autism served within the last year. The CARE Program provides outreach training, consultations and programs to support local individuals and families impacted by autism. Programs like Camp SSTAR and CARE Clubs allow children to gain valuable life and social skills while they build friendships and memories.
Heartspring is committed to keeping registration free for all, but participants are also challenged to create teams and fundraise for the CARE Program. Registration can be found on the Autism CARE Walk website, www.autismcarewalk.org.
“Every one in 68 children is impacted by autism. This means in the Wichita area the number would be 5,000 children,” said Hannah Henning, Heartspring special events coordinator. “The Autism CARE Walk gives these families the opportunity to advocate for their loved ones who are impacted by autism. Heartspring is committed to keeping this event free to attend so families can come out and be with others who understand, no matter what.”
Before and after the walk, participants will enjoy activities in an autism-friendly environment.
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