WUTC's Richard Winham talks with Dr. Dave Buck, executive director of the Chattanooga Autism Center. A first-ever walk to raise awareness about autism will take place November 9th in Coolidge Park.
From a media release:
Chattanooga will host its Inaugural walk to raise awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) on Saturday, November 9, 2013 at Coolidge Park. The 2.3 mile walk will begin at 10:30 a.m. and head across the Walnut Street (pedestrian) bridge, around the art district, and back to the park.
The Chattanooga Autism Center (CAC), a local parent-driven resource center and clinic, is in charge of the walk. Proceeds generated by this event fund CAC programs such as its outpatient autism clinic, support group for adults with autism, autism workshops, annual conference, an autism resource room, Greater Chattanooga Aspies, the Cleveland-CAC, training programs for kids and adults with autism, and many more projects and supports.
Participants can participate in activities provided prior to the walk. Prior to the start Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke will help kick off the walk. There is no race, therefore the walk is accessible to all families and community members. Strollers are welcome!
The CAC hopes to attract more than 1,000 participants to the Chattanooga Autism Awareness Walk. As with any event of this size, volunteers are needed to make it a success. Those interested in volunteering can sign up on the website. The website also offers a variety of Corporate-level sponsorship opportunities to help support the event.
Walkers and supporters must register, which can be done via the official website: www.chattautismwalk.com.
For more information on the event, volunteer and/or sponsorship opportunities, see the website or call Gina Mitch (Event Co-Chair) at 423-779-8562 or Dave Buck (CAC Executive Director) at 423-531-6961