Walks
2009 ND Autism Connection Autism Awareness Walk
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On the behalf of the ND Autism Connection Board of Directors, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the friends, families and the entire community who joined us at our 2nd Annual Autism Awareness Walk. It was held at Horizon Middle School on June 20, 2009 and it was a spectacular day full of fun, food, fellowship, information and family connections.
We started the day with getting excited teams registered and ready to begin the Walk. Our ceremony began with Sherris Richards welcoming us and reminding us why we were there. She also thanked the crowd for coming back and to help continue the fight for autism and to raise awareness in our community. Jen Polk sang beautifully as she lead us in the National Anthem along with the Amvet: Color Guard while they did a presentation of our American Flag. Betty Mitzel lead us in prayer for our families living autism and a hope to find a cure in our lifetime. She also encouraged us to hang in there and to never give up hope even when the way seems rough, never give up! Vicki Peterson read a letter from Congressman Pomeroy encouraging us to continue the fight and that he will be along side us fighting for autism in North Dakota. Senator Conrad also sent a letter, but it did not reach us by the day of the walk. Vicki also spoke to us about the legislative updates concerning autism in North Dakota and how great change was soon to come.
Dr. Twogood inspired our awesome children and led them in a chant of “lets walk” before reassuring and reminding the families that we are fighting for them and their futures. Kellie Ellenbaum informed us of a new program being offered in the area. Social Key is a non-profit organization whose mission is to raise monies to assist families with children with a confirmed diagnosis that affects social language and development.
Uncle Jack from Rock 101, kept the festivities going with lively and motivating music that kept the atmosphere charged. The crew from KFYR-TV came out and talked with us about the reason we were having the walk. We even had a special appearance from Clifford the Big Red Dog, who came out to join us and take pictures with our children. Last but not least, Rian McMaster led all the children in a great big “Thank You” for coming and helping in the fight chant.
Our walk began with families, friends, vendors, spectators, pets, bikes, and scooters, all moving together in taking the initial lap around the track. While we walked we were reminded to think of all of the many families that are living with Autism Spectrum Disorder. After the first lap, our vendors were graciously waiting in the gymnasium to share information on what and how they can help families living with autism. We had vendors from therapy to food to chiropractors to pharmacies and more.
The day concluded with our auction where vendors from different areas of North Dakota gave donations of items so people could enjoy massages, new shoes, play golf, and even play a game or two at the casinos. What a fun time it was. At the conclusion of the day, we shared hope and optimism with each other for the future for all of the families.
Thank you again for your heartfelt support and we look forward to seeing you back next year as we continue to raise awareness and connect together in our community.