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Volunteers Needed for Hudson Valley Autism Awareness Walk and Fair
Volunteers are needed to take steps toward raising critically needed funds through the Sixth Annual Autism Awareness Walk, sponsored by the Hudson Valley Autism Society and Autism Directory Service, Inc.
The event will be held Sunday, April 29, 2007, rain or shine at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, and registration begins at 9am. Individual and team walkers are encouraged to obtain sponsorships and raise money for this one to two-mile walk, which will fund local programs for the Hudson Valley autistic community, with a small portion dedicated to support research. Although no donation is too small, it is hoped that the average walker will bring pledges of at least $100.
More than 30 booths representing the autism care community will be on hand to answer questions and to provide information on services available to families affected by autism in the Hudson Valley, and entertainment for children and refreshments for participants will also be available during the event.
Nearly $355,000 was raised by more than 5,500 walkers during the first five annual Hudson Valley Autism Awareness Walks.
Autism is a neurological disorder that impairs the development of a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. Recent studies suggest one in 150 children may be autistic, and that autism affects 50 new families per day in the United States.
Autism is referred to as a spectrum disorder, meaning the symptoms can occur in any combination and with varying degrees of severity. It affects people of all races, religions and economic levels, and is the third most common developmental disorder. demonstrated through the swift completion of puzzling tasks.
For additional information, contact Kosack, Program Chair at (845) 473-3000, x377, or visit
www.walkforautism.com.
For more information on autism, visit the Autism Society of America's website at
www.autism-society.org.
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