April 16, 2009

Contact:
Andra Liwag
NSU Office of Public Affairs
954-262-5309 office
954-873-8494 cell
andrali@nova.edu

Thousands to Join Autism Speaks’ 9th Annual Broward County Walk Now for Autism

Nova Southeastern University is host site for annual autism research fundraising and awareness event

FT. LAUDERDALE-DAVIE, Fla. – Thousands of walkers – including individuals with autism, their families and friends – will join together this weekend at Autism Speaks’ 9th Annual Broward County Walk Now for Autism on Saturday, April 18 at the Alvin Sherman Library Green at Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave. in Davie.

The walkers will raise funds for critical scientific research, and increase awareness about a growing health crisis that now affects 1 in every 150 children. All proceeds from the event benefit Autism Speaks, the nation’s leading autism advocacy organization. Last year’s event raised more than $490,000 with 5,000 participants and 231 teams. This year’s goal is to break $525,000.

Walk Now for Autism is a unique fundraising event which creates a safe and fun day for families who are impacted by autism. The day includes a half mile walk and Community Resource fair with educational sources, therapists, schools, recreational organizations, and creative child-friendly activities – a true “one-stop-shop” for families affected by autism. 

Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person’s ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by extreme behavioral challenges. Another child is diagnosed every 20 minutes.

• What: Autism Speaks’ 9th Annual Broward County Walk Now for Autism
• When: Saturday, April 18, 2009
  • 8:30 a.m. – Registration and Resource Fair
  • 9:15 a.m. – Open ceremonies
  • 10:00 a.m. – Walk begins
• Where: Alvin Sherman Library Green at Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave. in Davie.
• HOW: To register, visit www.walknowforautism.org/broward

Toys“R”Us, Inc. and the Toys“R”Us Children’s Fund proudly serve as national sponsors of the Autism Speaks Walk Now for Autism program. Additional sponsors include Eppy Financial Group and partners Nova Southeastern University, Univision and WPLG.