Autism Speaks, Inaugural Cincinnati Walk Now for Autism Raises Over $350,000

The inaugural Cincinnati Walk Now for Autism took place on Saturday, May 3 at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden in Cincinnati, Ohio. Rainy skies failed to dampen the spirits of the more than 3,800 enthusiastic attendees, from 402 walk teams, who raised over $350,000. Following the event, walkers enjoyed free admission to the zoo.

Jenn Jordan, co-host of the Jeff and Jenn Morning Show on Cincinnati's Q102 and proud mother of a son with autism, served as a Walk Chair and the event's emcee. She welcomed the crowd and thanked them for their passionate support of the Walk. Ken Jones, president of the Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati, presented Autism Speaks with a $10,000 check, as a Gold Sponsor of the Walk. Following the check presentation, Something Blue, a boys choir, performed the national anthem. Bob Hellmann, a teenager with Asperger's Syndrome, counted down the final seconds leading up to the start of the Walk.

The resource fair showcased 22 booths, including Mad Science, a hands-on children's educational company; Cincinnati Children's Hospital, an Autism Treatment Network (ATN) site; and the Autism Treatment Center of America. A number of generous sponsors contributed to the success of the Cincinnati Walk Now for Autism. The Autism Society of Greater Cincinnati served as Gold Sponsor, the Cincinnati Children's Hospital served as Bronze Sponsor, and Sam's Club, Cincinnati Bell, and Keating Muething & Klekamp law firm served as Community Investors. Thanks to Chiquita Bananas, Kroger, John Morrell, and United Diary Farmers, generous in-kind sponsors who provided food and refreshments. Special thanks to Walk Chairs Jenn Jordan, John Manos and Lyn Manos for making the inaugural Cincinnati Walk such a success.

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