Autism Speaks, Sioux Falls Walk Exceeds all Expectations

Sioux Falls Walk Exceeds all Expectations

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.

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

Dance team and the Augustana Dance Express also entertained the crowd with their dance moves. Throughout the walk, the Sioux Falls Mariachi Band kept walker's feet moving around the field with their lively sound.

The Walk also hosted a resource fair featuring 25 companies and organizations including Meadow Sweet, Project Lifesaver, Sanford Children's Specialties, Children's Care Hospital and School, South Dakota Parent Connection and March Family Chiropractic.

Many generous local companies contributed to the success of the inaugural Sioux Falls Walk including The Empire Mall, Showplace Wood Products, Ameri/Star Real Estate and Behavior Care Specialists. Many thanks to walk chairs Jennifer Miller, Kris Stewart and Terry Keill for all their dedication in making this event so successful!

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

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.