Historic Rose Bowl Autism Walk Continues

[Updated]  Having raised $342 million since 2005, the annual event will be accompanied by ‘Field Day for All’ events in California as the organization reimagines community engagement.

The event represents a pivotal moment as the organization launches a new “Field Day for All” format alongside its Walk program.

“Since Autism Speaks’ inception in 2005, Autism Speaks Walk program has raised over $342 million, and grown to become the world’s largest autism fundraising event dedicated to supporting the needs of people with autism and their families throughout their life’s journey,” said Christie Godowski, Vice President for Community Engagement at Autism Speaks.

The event, beginning at 8:30 a.m., will feature up to 20 autism service providers offering free information through a comprehensive resource fair at the Rose Bowl grounds.

“In the United States, autism affects 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults. In bringing the community together, Autism Speaks Walks and Field Days offer a network of friendship and support, as well as raise awareness of the differences and diverse needs of people on the spectrum,” Godowski said.

The new Field Day format, already implemented in several cities, allows local providers to play an expanded role in community support and fundraising activities.

“Through the Autism Speaks Field Day for All program, local providers will also have the opportunity to showcase the different supports and services they offer to the autism community, drive fundraising for their organization, and receive 70% of the funds raised to further their efforts to help people with autism,” Godowski explained.

Autism Speaks provides comprehensive support through its free information and referral line, research grants, online provider database, workplace inclusion programs, and life stage support toolkits.

The organization maintains strict financial accountability, with 90 cents of every dollar raised by Autism Speaks empowering the group to provide crucial resources, research and advocacy to meet the needs of people with autism and their families, according to Godowski.

Event organizers have incorporated sensory-sensitive accommodations including quiet spaces, reduced-volume celebrations, and the use of pom poms instead of traditional applause.

Holiday-themed activities for children will be featured, and participants can register at https://tinyurl.com/sfkmdzdx as individuals or teams, with special recognition for Grand Club members who raise $1,000 or more.

Free parking and water will be provided at the Rose Bowl location, with additional concessions available during the event.

For more information, visit https://www.autismspeaks.org/events/los-angeles-walk.