On a brisk and bright morning, thousands of families and supporters for autism research participated in today’s walk at Orchard Beach for Autism Speaks, an organization dedicated to increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders, to funding research into the causes, prevention and treatments for autism, and to advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. People from across the borough gathered into
various teams, designated in support for a family member or friend of someone whose child has autism.
“This year’s event is so much more organized,” stated Arlene Rios, supporting ‘Team Jacob’. “Last year, when all five boroughs walked together at Citi Field, it was a mess. There was not enough room for people to walk. I wasn’t sure how much support there was going to be, now that each borough holds their own event, but I’m glad it went well. This year is so much smoother than last year.” Carmen Acosta, the leader for Team Jacob and Jacob’s mother, agreed. “This is fun to see people participating and supporting a good cause,” she commented, as she and over 10,000 people walked around Orchard Beach and the surrounding parkland. This was also evident by the various signs, banners, t-shirts and costumes worn by many of the participants, who advocated for their child, for a cure, and for autism awareness. This year’s Bronx walk raised over $136,000, with the top team, “Faith, Hope, Love” raising $7,680. Deanna D’Ariano, of team “Faith, Hope, Love”, was the top individual fundraiser, raising $4,000 for the event.
For more pictures of today’s event, visit our Facebook Photo Album.
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