nnual event highlights strong community support for autism awareness
Families, friends and supporters gathered along the Natchez Bluff Saturday morning for the annual Miles for Milestones Autism Awareness and Acceptance Walk, filling the riverfront with energy, color and a strong sense of community. Music played as participants checked in and prepared for the walk, while children and adults alike explored a variety of activities designed to be inclusive and engaging for all ages.
Beyond the walk itself, the event offered a full slate of attractions, including sensory-friendly play areas, an inflatable slide, face painting and various hands-on opportunities with interactive toys, as well as ways to connect, learn and support autism awareness.
After the event organizers later shared on social media that this year’s event drew a record crowd and surpassed its fundraising goal, calling the day “truly something special.”
“A very special thank you to the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office for joining us, speaking, and committing to Project Lifesaver—and to Travis Patten and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office for also stepping forward to bring this life-saving technology to our area. This is real impact, and it’s happening because of this community,” Chandler Brantley wrote on Facebook. “We are beyond grateful for every sponsor, volunteer, participant, and supporter who made this day possible.”
“Mark your calendars now—Miles for Milestones will be back on April 10th, 2027,” Brantley wrote.
See some of the highlights from this year’s walk in the above gallery of photos.