Hudson Valley Autism Walk to be Held Oct. 2nd

PLEASANT VALLEY – The Walk is on!!! The Hudson Valley Walk for Autism will be held Saturday, October 2, 2021, rain or shine at James Baird State Park in Pleasant Valley, N.Y. from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. “This special event, is open to the Hudson Valley community to raise funds for local programs, raise autism awareness and acceptance and connect families to the many local services available for people living with autism,” said Allison Fedigan of the Autism Directory Service, Inc (ADS) and Chairperson of this year’s walk. “Most importantly, the Walk offers families and the community an opportunity to share a fun-filled day with their loved ones in an autism friendly venue while supporting a vital cause.”

The event features an accessible walk around the grounds of the beautiful James Baird State Park. Individual and team walkers are encouraged to register and/or obtain sponsorships. There is registration fee per walker and participants on the ASD spectrum are free. Although no donation is too small, it is hoped that the average walker will provide pledges of at least $100. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m., and walk-ins are welcome; the first 500 registrants will receive a free gift.

More than 40 agencies, providers and vendors representing the local autism care community will be available to provide information and answer questions. Food trucks, entertainment and varied activities are offered for children and their families.

Autism is a pervasive neurological disorder that affects the development of a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others in addition to a spectrum of intellectual and physical impairments. In 2020, the CDC reported that 1 in 54 children is diagnosed with autism; 1 in 37 boys and 1 in 151 girls. Every 20 minutes a new family receives a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Autism is the third most common developmental disorder, and is referred to as a spectrum disorder, meaning the symptoms can occur in any combination and with varying degrees of severity. It is a lifelong developmental disability, affecting people of all races, religions and economic levels. Early signs include serious speech delay, poor eye contact, sensory issues and extreme tantrums for no apparent reason. Causes of Autism are still unknown, but early intervention goes a long way to help identify and begin to correct some of the symptoms. Under proper care, children with autism can learn to play, talk, read, write and do most other activities. The goal of the Walk is to raise acceptance of people living with autism and provide information on vital resources available so that these children may have a better chance at a productive and satisfying life.

To register, and for additional information about the Walk, activities and sponsors, contact Allison Fedigan at (914) 966-9019, email hvwalkforautism@gmail.com or visit www.adshelps.org.