Long Islanders speak up for autism

Thousands of Long Islanders came out to Jones Beach State Park in Wantagh on Sunday to “light it up blue” for autism awareness. Before participating in a 3-mile walk, hosted by Autism Speaks, locals raised nearly $600,000 to advance research and improve availability of new and better treatments for those who have the disorder. 

The event featured a community resource fair, where various service providers and nonprofit organizations offered information to the Long Island autism community. There was also live music, refreshments, games and a kids’ corner. 

Funds raised at the walk will benefit Autism Speaks, which was founded in February 2005. According to the group’s website, Autism Speaks has grown into the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. 

At the Long Island event, many of the participants were on fundraising teams, collaborating with friends and family members to collect money for the charity in honor of a loved one. Team “Love for Dylan and Noah Surrounded by Love” and Team “Piece by Piece” were the top fundraisers, gathering a combined $33,000 for the cause. 

Autism Speaks LI aims to collect $1.2 million through this initiative. Donations are still being accepted online after the walk day. To find out more about the cause, donate and/or attend future fundraisers, visit www.walkforautismspeaks.org.