On Saturday, Oct. 11, over 1000 people walked at Sioux Falls Stadium, S.D., in the inaugural Sioux Falls Walk Now for Autism. Walkers from across the state of South Dakota, as well as Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska exceeded all fundraising expectations by raising over $78,000 against a goal of $50,000.
During the opening ceremonies, the Augustana Deaf Awareness group performed in sign language while Trey Southerland from Augustana College sang the national anthem. Jeff Pickett, VP of Marketing at Children's Care Hospital and School spoke about the real numbers of children treated within the Sioux Falls area. Brittany Schmidt from the University of South Dakota, Center for Disabilities spoke about her local educational initiative which was funded through Autism Speaks Family Services Community Grants.
Children got to meet Toys“R”Us' Geoffrey the Giraffe, “Cagey” from the Sioux Falls Canaries and Cecil the Caterpillar from Sertoma Butterfly House. The RHS Teddy's
USD Econ Dept Team Captain David Carr and his son, Joe, enjoy the Walk.
Chris Ashworth's Amazing Autism Band proudly displays their team banner during the Walk.
Jamie Swenson, the 2008 Sioux Falls Top Fundraiser with her family and team members of Team Hope
The Sioux Falls Walk Tri-Chairs, Terry Keill, Jennifer Miller and Kris Stewart at the opening ceremonies
The Augustana Dance Express shows off their enthusiasm at the opening ceremonies of the Walk.