LONDON, June 20, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As the prevalence of autism diagnoses increases 30% in 2 years, Autism Speaks Canada responds to the urgent need to raise more money in the 4th Annual London Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada at Western University's University Community Centre, on June 22nd from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. This year's fundraising goal is to raise over $42,000.00 and all the proceeds from the event support the local and national work of Autism Speaks Canada, which together with Autism Speaks in the U.S.A., is the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization. Autism Spectrum disorder is now diagnosed in 1 in every 68 children, making it the fastest-growing developmental disorder in North America, Europe, and Asia. Last year's London Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada attracted more than 250 walkers and raised more than $49,000.00. In addition to its national efforts, the organization has provided funding to many local service providers across the London area, including recent grants to Hutton House, Pathways Health Centre for Children, and Thomas Valley Children's Centre.
The London Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada, locally sponsored by TD Wealth, is a fun, family friendly event that includes a 3 km walk through the university's campus. During the event, the University Community Centre is transformed into a children's play land with inflatables and face painting. The event will also host a community Resource Fair featuring autism-related service providers, educational sources, therapists, schools, and recreational organizations – a true "one-stop-shop" for families affected by autism. "Thanks to tremendous community support and the work of our wonderful volunteers, our Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada event has grown each year, and we expect to expand the ranks of both walkers and donors in 2014," said Amy Fitzpatrick, Autism Speaks Canada's Regional Walk Manager, Southwestern Ontario.
Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us will host a tented area at The Walk, serving as home base for the company's mascot Geoffrey the Giraffe. For more information about the 2014 Saskatoon Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada, please visit www.walknowforautismspeaks.ca.