Autism Speaks Canada Walk Brings the Autism Community Together

Walk, Fundraise and Volunteer in the Annual Edmonton Walk on September 9

TORONTO, Sept. 6, 2018 /CNW/ - Autism Speaks Canada Walk, presented by Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us, announced that Edmonton's annual walk will take place this Sunday, September 9th at Rundle Park.

Autism Speaks Canada Walk is part of the world's largest fundraising event to enhance the lives of people with autism today and accelerate a spectrum of solutions for tomorrow. Powered by the love of parents, grandparents, children, siblings, friends, relatives, and support providers for the special people in their lives living with autism, the funds raised help fuel innovative research and capacity building in Edmonton and across Canada.

The Autism Speaks Canada Walk has raised over $13 million since it began, of which over $1.6 million has been raised in Edmonton. "Thanks to the tremendous community support and the work of our volunteers, our Autism Speaks Canada Walks continue to bring the community together in celebration and support and I couldn't be more inspired by their impact," said Jill Farber, executive director, Autism Speaks Canada.

It's not too late to register, fundraise and volunteer at ASCWalk.ca/Edmonton. All participants who raise $150 or more will receive the official t-shirt. Those who reach the $1,000 level, will become part of the GRAND CLUB and receive additional incentives.

"We are also grateful for the dedication of Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us. Their exemplary support of our Autism Speaks Canada Walk program as presenting sponsor, and commitment to raising autism awareness and the creation of the Sensory Friendly Shopping experiences illustrate their passion and support. They are an example of a true partner committed to giving back to the community. We couldn't be luckier to work with them," said Farber.

Thank you also to our local sponsor, CTV and our national sponsors Cineplex, Kernels, Glutino and Pure Source, who all add to the event's success.

About Autism
Autism spectrum disorder, or autism, refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviours, speech and nonverbal communication. We now know that there is not one autism but many subtypes, and each person with autism can have unique strengths and challenges. Causes include a combination of genetic and environmental influences, and many are accompanied by medical issues such as GI disorders, seizures and sleep disturbances.

About Autism Speaks Canada
Autism Speaks Canada is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families by supporting and working with community partners; enhancing resources and services; increasing understanding, acceptance and inclusion of people with autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions. To find resources, join a fundraising walk or make a donation, go to www.autismspeaks.ca.

SOURCE Autism Speaks Canada