2008 Walk Now for Autism - Dallas/ Fort Worth

5,500 Walkers Raise $385,000 at 5th Annual Dallas/Ft. Worth Walk Now for Autism


On Saturday, June 14, 5,500 people at walked at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Texas for the 5th annual Dallas/Ft. Worth Walk Now for Autism, over 1,500 more participants than at last year's event. The walkers, on more than 350 teams, 30 more than in 2007, have raised $385,000 to date.

Mrs. Texas USA Wendy Grandell, actor Jesse Plemons from NBC's "Friday Night Lights," and Steve Mauldin, the general manager of media sponsor CBS 11, participated in the Walk. Plemons is a strong supporter of Autism Speaks and the Walk program in Texas. Mr. Mauldin is the founder of Stephanie's Day, a local resource fair and autism awareness day, named for his daughter Stephanie. Beka Mercadel, a driver in the Junior Hot Rod Association, unveiled her new racecar, dedicated to her brother Joshua who has autism, Walkers enjoyed performances by Creative Soul Music, a band comprised of kids, many of whom have autism.

The resource fair showcased 25 local organizations and companies, including Autism Spot, a free online resource for the autism community; College Living Experience, a program that helps students with learning disabilities transition into an independent, successful life and FEAT North Texas, a local community resource center and library.

FelCor Lodging Trust, a Top Corporate Sponsor, contributed $50,000 and fielded a Walk team with an additional commitment of $50,000. Local television stations CBS 11 and TXA 21 served as Media Sponsors. Special thanks to Walk Chair Ann Marie Arcadi for making the 5th annual Dallas/Ft. Worth Walk Now for Autism so successful.

Visit the Dallas/Ft. Worth 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
• Dallas
• Fort
• Worth
• Texas
• fundraiser