JACKSON, Mo. (KFVS) - Autism Awareness of Southeast Missouri hosted its Color Walk & Roll on Sunday, April 26.
The 1-mile color walk took place at Jackson City Park, 542 W. Independence St.
“Walk, roll, jog, or stroll—this event is all about inclusion, community, and celebrating autism awareness,“ AASM said. ”Participants are encouraged to wear white and enjoy bursts of color along the route."
Registration began at 11:30 a.m., and the walk and roll started at 1 p.m.
Strollers and mobility devices were welcome.
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President of the organization, Ashley Showalter, was happy to see such a big turnout.
“To be honest, it feels amazing,” Showalter said. “To have an event of this size, and it’s going smoothly, it’s great. I love it. I love it, and my team loves it and we love that we can do this for the community.”
Showalter also spoke about her personal connection to the community and why she started the group.
“I have a son that’s 15. He’s non-verbal. He’s on the lower end of the spectrum. He got diagnosed when he was two and a half,” Showalter said. “When he was two and a half, I had to go through the motions by myself, and I told myself that I didn’t want any parents to have to do that.”
Participants had the option to create or join a team to raise funds for local autism awareness programs. Awards were given to the largest team, top fundraising team and top individual fundraiser. Click here for more fundraising information.
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Local businesses and organizations hosted booths.
Click here for more information about the event.
On Friday, April 24, Spectrum Record Lounge in Cape Girardeau hosted Karaoke for a Cause to support AASM.
The event was at 7 p.m.
Those with Spectrum say they will also donate 10 percent of sales that day in support of Autism Awareness Month.
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