2008 Walk Now for Autism - Pittsburgh

12,000 Walkers Join 9th Annual Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism

On Saturday, June 7, 12,000 people walked at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Penn. for the 9th annual Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism, over a thousand more participants than at last year's event. The walkers, on nearly 490 teams, have raised over $814,000 and the total is expected to surpass the million dollar mark. Family teamsraise the majority of funds at the Pittsburgh Walk. One, Jacob's Hope, led by Ron Bloom, has raised over $150,000 thus far.

For the ninth consecutive year, emcee Larry Richert of KDKA radio and DJ Bob Scuillion entertained the crowd. Representative Tim Murphy (R - PA) spoke about the importance of funding autism research. Channel 4 newscaster Jake Ploeger returned for his second year to introduce returning Walk Chairs Craig Hendrick and Rick Murray, and to thank everyone for the event's continued success. Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz was on hand to cut the ribbon with Toys"R"Us' Geoffrey the Giraffe. Walkers enjoyed performances by the JEZ Band, a group of young boys who have a cousin with autism, and James Tobin, a local musician.

The resource fair showcased 29 local organizations and companies, including The Hope Learning Center, Dynavox, Family Behavioral Resources, Pittsburgh Early Autism Study, Northwest Human Services, Pressley Ridge, The Watson Institute, and The Children's Institute. The Hope Learning Center provided stuffed animals for all walkers who visited its booth.

A number of generous sponsors contributed to the success of the Walk, especially the Buffalo Bills, the Corporate Visionary Sponsor of the Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism. Platinum Sponsors included Nutricia (a Walk Now for Autism National Sponsor) DynaVox Technologies, Family Behavioral Resources, Giant Eagle, Pitt Ohio Express and QTG Sales. FedEx, Mylan Laboratories, Inc., National Network of Digital Schools and Pressley Ridge contributed as Gold Sponsors. Bronze Sponsors included IUOE Local Union No. 66, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Respironics, University of Pittsburgh/Department of Pathology and Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic/John Merck.

Visit the Pittsburgh 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
• pittsburgh
• fundraiser