Walk Now for Autism 2008 - Utah

5,000 Walkers Participate in Inaugural Utah Walk Now for Autism




Although snowy days predicated the event, blue skies prevailed when 5,000 people walked on Saturday, May 3 at Cottonwood High School in Salt Lake City for the inaugural Utah Walk Now for Autism. The walkers, from more than 300 teams, raised over $300,000, exceeding their first year goal.

Monavie Sky Dive Team kicked off opening ceremonies by landing during the national anthem, which was performed by Heather Anderson, a 2007 top 10 Miss USA finalist from Utah. Murray City Mayor Daniel Snarr addressed the crowd during the opening ceremonies. Numerous entertainers joined the festivities, including mascots from local sports teams, the Salt Lake Bees and the Utah Blaze, Toys"R"Us Geoffrey the Giraffe, face painters, balloon artists and a caricature artist. During the Walk, children created a "Hands that Hold Our Hearts" quilt, which will be auctioned off later in the year.

The resource fair showcased more than 40 organizations and companies, including Nutricia, Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us, who set up not only a booth, but also a baby changing station. A number of generous sponsors contributed to the success of the Utah Walk Now for Autism. Mountain America served as Platinum Sponsor, American United served as Gold Sponsor, and CU Management and Dr. Humphreys Healing Solutions Pediatric Center served as Silver Sponsors. Seven other sponsors, many of which contributed at the Bronze level, included: Accent Surfaces, Autisticvoice.com, Boart Longyear, Cobble Creek Homes, Richmond American Homes, Teamsters 222, and FLSmidth. Special thanks to Walk Chairs Amy Baker and Amanda Patten for making the inaugural Utah Walk such a success.

Visit the Utah 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
• utah
• fundraiser
• family