The annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks takes place Saturday at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, with more than 7,000 families expected to attend.
The event raises funds and awareness to support research into a developmental disorder that affects 1 in every 100 children in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
A recent study published in the October edition of Pediatrics magazine cited a parent-reported autism rate of 1 in 91 American children and 1 in 58 boys.
Last year, Orange County’s Walk Now for Autism Speaks raised more than $375,000.
There is no registration fee for the walk, but participants are encouraged to raise $150 in order to receive a commemorative T-shirt. On-site registration starts at 8 a.m. at the stadium, 2000 Gene Autry Way, Anaheim. Opening ceremonies are at 9:30 a.m. and the walk begins at 10 a.m. Walkers will be able to see themselves on the jumbo screen once inside the stadium.
The event will include an autism-focused community resource fair and a kids’ zone with bounce houses, video game truck, face painting, balloon artists and more.
For more information, go to walknowforautism.org/orangecounty or call 323-297-4769.
