On Saturday, September 20, a record-breaking 12,000 people participated in the 6th annual Philadelphia Walk Now for Autism at Citizens Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies. Walkers on 666 teams raised over $810,000 for Autism Speaks, while enjoying family activities and a resource fair which filled the entire concourse level of the stadium.
Pioneer broadcast journalist Marciarose Shestack made stage announcements and assisted with the Media/VIP tent. Autism Speaks Executive Vice President Peter Bell revved up the crowd, ably assisted by numerous emcees from local TV outlets: CBS 3 Evening News Anchors Susan Barnett and Chris May, CBS 3's weatherman Doug Kammerer and the CW Philly 57's Sean Murphy. Country singer Mark Leland performed his hit songs “Missing Pieces” and “Thank God for Grace” for the crowd. Other exciting musical performers included Jamie Manning and Bascombe Brothers.
Walkers enjoyed the Citizens Bank Park experience!
Highlights from the Philadelphia Walk Now for Autism (YouTube video, ~2 minutes)
The resource fair showcased 70 organizations and companies, including Drexel University, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Autism Society of America – Greater Philadelphia Chapter. All the booths featured a child-friendly activity so that parents and their children could spend more time at each booth.
Generous sponsors including NHS Human Services, Drexel University College of Medicine and Drexel University School of Public Health contributed to the success of the Philadelphia Walk Now for Autism. Special thanks to returning Walk Chair Stacey Fliegelman for making the 6th annual Philadelphia Walk such a success.
Visit the PhiladelphiaWalk page or go to the Walk Now for Autismsite to find a Walk in your area.
The Philadelphia skyline served as the backdrop to our walk on a beautiful day
Committee and their children on stage, along with the Phillie Phanatic, CBS 3 and the CW Philly 57 emcees, and country singer Mark Leland.
Cynthia Day, 2008 PR Co-Chair, and 2009 Walk Co-Chair, on stage with her son, Robbie
Walk Chair, Stacey Fliegelman, and her son, Jason, welcome the crowd.
Participants gatherin anticipation of the stage show.
Autism Speaks executive vice president Peter Bell and his son, Tyler, have been involved with the Walk since it began in 2003,