SASKATOON, Saskatchewan, June 16, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Autism Speaks Canada, part of North America's largest autism science and advocacy organization, announced that the Saskatoon Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada fundraising and awareness event will take place this Sunday, June 21, 2015 at Diefenbaker Park, Saskatoon. All event proceeds will support Autism Speaks' work, both locally and nationally, to increase awareness about autism spectrum disorder, fund autism research and family services, and advocate for the needs of individuals with autism and their families in Saskatoon and across all of Canada. Autism spectrum disorder is now diagnosed in 1 in every 68 children.
The Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada events are the signature fundraising events for Autism Speaks Canada, raising nearly $1.4 million in 2014 to support autism research, services, awareness and advocacy. In addition to its national efforts, the organization has provided funding to local services providers including Autism Services of Saskatoon.
Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada is a unique fundraising event that offers a safe and fun day for families impacted by autism. The day includes a 3 kilometer Walk and Community Resource Fair with 7 nonprofit organizations and small business owners ranging from educational sources, therapists, schools, recreational organizations, and creative child-friendly activities – a true "one-stop-shop" for families impacted by autism: Saskatchewan Association for Community Living, Community Living Association Saskatoon Inc. (CLASI), Equilibrium Therapeutic Riding Inc., Parent Advocates for Autism, Pawsitive Independence Autism Service Dogs of Saskatchewan Inc., Special Olympics Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Autism Services of Saskatoon.
"Thanks to tremendous community support and the work of our wonderful volunteers, our Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada event has made an enormous impact on the work that our organization is able to support each and every year" said Jill Farber, Executive Director. "In addition to raising funds and awareness, the Walk is a chance for families to come together, support each other, and make connections. Working together, we are making great strides toward improving the lives of people with autism and their families." Last year, more than 550 people gathered for Saskatoon's Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada where $70,000 was raised.
"Thanks to the help of sponsors, walkers and our local champion, Jayden Johnson, from Margo Saskatchew, our National Honorary Walk Ambassador for 2015, 2015 is poised to be a success," said Melanie Haydon, National Director Walks and Community Events, Autism Speaks Canada.
Toys"R"Us® and Babies"R"Us® will proudly serve as National Presenting Sponsors of Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada. 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 2015 Saskatoon Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada, please visit www.walknowforautismspeaks.ca or contact your walk manager at ABSKwalknow@autismspeakscan.ca.