2008 Walk Now for Autism - Oklahoma City

2nd Annual Oklahoma Walk Now for Autism Increases Participation by 64%

On Saturday, June 7, 4,500 people walked at AT&T Bricktown Ballpark in Oklahoma City, Okla. for the 2nd annual Oklahoma Walk Now for Autism, representing a 64% growth in participation over last year's event. The walkers, on nearly 180 teams, raised over $168,000.

Oklahoma State Senator Jay Paul Gumm (D), who has been tireless in his efforts to pass state insurance mandates cover autism-related treatment, spoke at the opening ceremony. Walkers enjoyed appearances from local high school cheerleaders, Star Wars and Ghostbusters characters, Rowdy Redhawk, mascot of the Oklahoma Redhawks minor league baseball team, Chester the Clown, and City of Oklahoma Firefighters, who brought their ladder truck. The child-friendly event boasted a donated inflatable jumping machine, obstacle course, ball pit and super slide. There was hair coloring for kids, bubbles, a Play-Doh station, and a "touch & try" musical instrument station sponsored and staffed by the Oklahoma Philharmonic Orchestra.

The resource fair showcased eight organizations and companies, including National Walk Sponsor Toys"R"Us, Sensational Kids, Oklahoma Autism Network, Britton Chiropractic, Camelot and Organic Gourmet.

Generous sponsors that contributed to the success of the Northern New Jersey Walk Now for Autism included Able Sales & Rents which donated tables and chairs; Action Safety Supply which provided barricades and planning to ensure a safe walk route through downtown Oklahoma City; the Bricktown Rotary Club, which supplied walk day manpower, snacks and water; and Sprint who contributed walkie talkies. Special thanks to returning Walk Chair Crystal Frost making the 2nd annual Oklahoma Walk such a success.

Visit the Oklahoma Walk page or go to the Walk Now for Autism site to find a walk in your area.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• autism
• speaks
• walk
• now
• for
• oklahoma
• city
• fundraiser