Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
By Stephen Farrington
Sales Executive
WINTHROP – The Autism Society of Maine’s annual Walk for Autism is about to celebrate its 15th year in existence. For the 15th year in a row the small group of dedicated workers at the Autism Society of Maine will be organizing an event that not only raises awareness, but teaches, and informs. For 15 years now (15 years) men, women and children from all backgrounds and classes have been coming together to celebrate: coming together.
Originally established to raise money to provide summer camp for children with autism, the first walk was held in Biddeford in 2003. Boasting over 200 walkers, the Autism Society couldn’t have been more pleased; all these years later they have seen those 200 people grow to more than 1,200, and that one location has expanded to five locations across Maine. From $10,000 in 2003 to $60,000 in 2016, the walk has not only raised money for camp and other programs, it’s raised awareness and the need for awareness and education has never been greater.
Twenty years ago, autism was diagnosed at a rate of 1 in 10,000; today, the rate is 1 in 68. What’s more astounding is that even despite the increase in autistic diagnoses, so many people remain misinformed. That’s where ASM comes in. The Autism Society of Maine works with communities all over the state to address the need for education and there is no better event in the ASM playbook than the Walk.
It’s because of the Walk that children with social disorders of all levels and intensities can find a place they feel they belong; parents who have struggled every year to find a camp able to provide that specific, on-on-one attention their child needs can finally send them to a place tailored to them. It’s because of the Walk, that camp has become two camps. And believe it or not, it’s not only the children and their families who benefit.
Camp counselors are University of Maine Farmington students learning how to interact and work with levels of autism across the spectrum. They go beyond the classroom to a place they can learn actual, valuable skills.
For 41 years, the board of directors and staff at the Autism Society of Maine have dedicated themselves to a cause that effects thousands of people in the state. They have worked tirelessly to educate and empower the communities which it serves. They have watched children become adults, and mentors. They have witnessed communities coming together.
With locations in Biddeford, Bangor, Farmington, Belfast and, for the first time ever, Fryeburg, you’re sure to find a walk close to you. There is no registration fee; participants can bring as much or as little as they’re able. On Sunday, April 30, come show your support. You can bet I’ll be there.
There is still so much that needs to be done. For more information on how you can be a part of the 2017 Walk for Autism, visit www.asmonline.org/get-involved/walk-for-autism.aspx/.
The Autism Society of Maine is located at 72B Main St., Winthrop. You can call them at 800-273-5200 or 207-377-9603; email: asm@asmonline.org.
