March 22, 2006 

Nova Southeastern University Hosts
2006 Broward Walk for Autism Research

FT. LAUDERDALE-DAVIE, Fla. ―Thousands of individuals, families and friends touched by the devastating effects of autism will join together to raise funds for critical scientific research and to increase awareness about this growing health crisis at the annual Broward Walk for Autism Research on Saturday, April 22, at Nova Southeastern University. Check-In begins at 9:00 a.m.  

The National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR) and Autism Speaks recently merged operations under the Autism Speaks banner and are working together to expand NAAR’s existing national walk program.  All proceeds from the event benefit Autism Speaks, an international non-profit organization dedicated to increasing awareness of autism and raising money to fund autism research.  Last year’s Broward walk drew more than 2,000 thousand walkers and raised more than $200,000

The Walk for Autism Research is the signature fundraising event for the new Autism Speaks.  Established by NAAR in 2000, Walk for Autism Research events have attracted hundreds of thousands of walkers worldwide who have raised tens of millions of dollars for autism research.  Last year almost $9 million was raised nationally via the walk program.

"Our walk is more than a fundraiser,” said Laura Paz Chair of the Broward Walk for Autism Research.  "It brings families together for a special day of activities, games, a resource fair, and the chance to meet other families and community supporters who are committed to finding answers for all those who struggle with autism spectrum disorders.”

Sponsors of the Broward Walk for Autism Research include Nova Southeastern University, Jamba Juice, Whole Foods Market, The Bagelers, Cusanos Bakery, Maggie Moo’s Ice Cream and Treatery, and Bonefish Grill.

For more information about the walk and how to join the effort by walking, contributing or volunteering, please call 800-610-6227 or visit www.autismwalk.org/broward.