This summer will mark the 14th anniversary of Kevin's diagnosis with autism. That diagnosis plunged us into a world we did not expect--one of fear, uncertainty, and frustration, but also one filled with generosity, celebration, and accomplishment. It's not a child's job to teach their parents and yet it's what they do. Kevin has taught us to appreciate small victories because sometimes they are the hardest won. He has taught us to understand that our perception may not be someone else's reality, and we should respond to that with kindness and empathy. And he has taught us A LOT about Star Wars!

We feel blessed by the people that autism has brought into our lives like teachers, therapists, and friends. We appreciate that our extended family has always supported Kevin and our goals for him...and sometimes even pushed us out of our comfort zone for his benefit. Kevin's learner's permit is the direct result of encouragement by his Uncle Harry.

Finally, we are grateful for all that Autism Society NWPA has brought into our lives for the past nine years. This organization has been there with family outings and fellowship when we were new to town. It has continued to build its offerings to include a LEGO social club and Teen Club to help Kevin learn and practice those social skills that come so naturally to others.

Please consider giving Kevin a virtual "high five" by donating to the 2020 Virtual Walk for Autism or registering to "walk" with our team to get a commemorative t-shirt. Out-of-town t-shirts can be delivered whenever we get to see each other again. 

CLICK HERE TO WALK WITH HIGH 5 FOR AUTISM

19th Annual Walk for Autism | VIRTUAL EVENT 

WHEN:  Saturday, June 6, 2020

Bridge the Distance | Virtual Campaign

WHEN:  April 25 ~ June 5, 2020

What is the virtual Walk for Autism?  A “Virtual Walk” is a real walk, but on your terms: you select the location, what time you start, and who walks next to you (6’ apart)! We encourage you to wear your favorite vintage Autism Walk t-shirt or favorite autism tee and share a photo on social media. We would like you to share a picture, story, or video of your family/supports with your Autism Society NWPA Vintage Walk tees or favorite autism tees or make new ones as a family project!

Show us how you created “your” walk in support of the 19th Annual Walk for Autism virtually. Post to Bridge the Distance | 19th Annual Walk for Autism Facebook page and/or tag “Autism Society – Northwestern Pennsylvania” and #AutismNWPA

What is Bridge the Distance | Virtual Campaign?  Autism Society NWPA is launching a virtual campaign to help motivate our teams, community, and provide a platform for sharing. We are launching Bridge the Distance to keep us connected until the 19^th Annual Walk for Autism | Virtual Event on Saturday, June 6, 2020.

Offering:

• Team/Fundraising Captain Incentives
• Weekly Challenges
• Virtual Badges
• Sharing your efforts and ideas
• Sponsor Highlights
• Vendor Information
• DIGITAL Basket Auction

Walk Registration Information:  PRE-REGISTRATION DEADLINE MAY 12, 2020

Adult Walkers (age 15 & up) | $20 per walker includes adult size commemorative Walk t-shirt (guaranteed by the pre-registration deadline May 12, 2020)

Tween Walkers (age 10-14) | $10 per walker includes adult size commemorative Walk t-shirt (guaranteed by the pre-registration deadline May 12, 2020)

Youth Walkers (age 0-9) | FREE

Youth Size T-shirts (optional) | $8.00 per youth size commemorative Walk t-shirt.  Commemorative YOUTH t-shirts for walkers age 0-9 may be reserved and WILL NOT be available for purchase at the Walk, no exceptions.  Please include $8 per youth shirt reserved.  Deadline: May 12, 2020. *Anyone age 0-9 who would like an ADULT SIZE shirt must register as a Tween Walker.