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9,000 Participants Join SE Michigan
Walk Now for Autism

On Sunday, Oct. 12, an estimated 9,000 people rallied together for the 2nd annual SE Michigan Walk Now for Autism at The Palace in Detroit, Mich. The walkers, on more than 300 teams, raised over $425,000.

Walkers enjoyed an oversized playground with arts and crafts, rock climbing, oversized trampolines, inflatables, face painting and airbrush tattoos, games and visits with their favorite characters, including Pistons mascot Hooper. Special guests included honorary Walk Chair, WWJ-TV Chief Meteorologist Jim Matteus, Autism Speaks President Mark Roithmayr, Dick Purtan from 104.3 WOMC, Dennis Sampier, Director of Community Relations/Pistons-Palace Foundation, and Detroit Piston Arron Afflalo.

The Walk hosted a resource fair, which showcased 38 companies and organizations, including SensoryCritters.com,

Walk Co-Chairs Susan Woolner and Kelly Kinney pose for a photo with Mark Roithmayr, Autism Speaks' president.

Highlights from the SE Michigan Walk Now for Autism
(YouTube video, ~2 minutes)
Autism One Stop Shop, University of Michigan Autism & Communications Disorders Center, Great Expectations Children's Therapy and Learning Center and Judson's Center Autism Connections.

A number of generous sponsors contributed to the success of the SE Michigan Walk Now for Autism, including Henry Ford Medical Center, Detroit Medical Center: Children's Hospital of Michigan, The Palace Sports and Entertainment, Meijer, CW 50 TV, WWJ TV and WOMC. Many thanks to returning Walk Chairs Susan Woolner and Kelly Kinney for making the SE Michigan Walk such a success.

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