Autism Speaks, Sonoma Walk Now for Autism Increases Participation by 1400% in Three Years

Sonoma Walk Now for Autism Increases Participation by 1400% in Three Years

In 2006, fifty eager walkers in Sonoma County raised $10,000 for Autism Speaks; on April 19, 2008 at the third annual Sonoma Walk Now for Autism, 750 walkers brought in $110,000. Eighty-one teams participated in the walk, which took place at Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park, Calif., nearly 30 more than last year.

The Mayor of Rohnert Park, Jake McKenzie, addressed the crowd, recognizing the amazing outpouring of community support and paying special note to the best turnout from Rohnert Park in the event's history.

The resource fair featured 11 booths, including Bay Respite Care, Anova School, UC Davis - Department of Public Health Services, AT Network-Community Resources for Independence,

Kathie Gadberry, Greater Phoenix Regional Walk Director, is flanked by enthusiastic volunteers.

Highlights from the Sonoma Walk Now for Autism
(YouTube video, ~1 minute)

Matrix Parent Network & Resource Center, Marin, Redwood Pediatric Therapy Associates, Inc., A Better Chance School/California Autism Foundation, Early Learning Institute, and The Swain Center. A number of generous sponsors contributed to the success of the Sonoma Walk Now for Autism. Special thanks to National Walk sponsor, Toys”R”Us, for bringing Geoffrey the Giraffe, and featuring the “10 Toys that Speak to Autism”.Other sponsors included United Health Services Schools and United Cerebral Palsy/Cypress School. Many thanks to Walk Chairs Ronnie Echavarria and Aura Lopez for making this walk so successful.

Visit the Sonoma Walk Now for Autism page or go to the Walk Now for Autism site to find a walk in your area.

Sonoma volunteers staffed the registration table

Kids enjoyed the inflatable bounce houses at the Sonoma Walk.