SASKATCHEWAN, June 20, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As the prevalence of autism diagnoses increases 30% in 2 years, Autism Speaks Canada responds to the urgent need to raise more money in the 2nd Annual Saskatoon Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada at Diefenbaker Park on June 22nd from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. This year's fundraising goal is to raise $80,000.00 and all the proceeds from the event support the local and national work of Autism Speaks Canada, which together with Autism Speaks in the U.S.A., is the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization. Autism Spectrum disorder is now diagnosed in 1 in every 68 children, making it the fastest-growing developmental disorder in North America, Europe, and Asia. Last year's Saskatoon Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada attracted more than 500 walkers and raised over $79,000.00.
The Saskatoon Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada is a fun, family friendly event that includes a 3 km walk through the park. During the event, the park is transformed into a children's play land with inflatables and face painting. The event will also host a community Resource Fair featuring autism-related service providers, educational sources, therapists, schools, and recreational organizations – a true "one-stop-shop" for families affected by autism. "Thanks to tremendous community support and the work of our wonderful volunteers, our Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada event has grown each year, and we expect to expand the ranks of both walkers and donors in 2014," said Sherrie Cameron, Autism Speaks Canada's Regional Walk Manager, Saskatoon.
Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us will host a tented area at The Walk, serving as home base for the company's mascot Geoffrey the Giraffe. For more information about the 2014 Saskatoon Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada, please visit www.walknowforautismspeaks.ca.