CANTON – Over $38,500 was raised by 404 participants and over two dozen sponsors at the annual Autism Acceptance Walk held at SUNY Canton on March 17.
Funds raised help The Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence provide lifelong services that foster independence, build confidence, and create meaningful opportunities for the people they support.
Centered around this year’s theme, “Flower Power – Kindness is Our Vibe,” the event celebrates inclusion while raising critical funds for programs that support individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities across the North Country.
The morning featured family-friendly activities, music, a costume contest, and a display of community spirit.
“Events like the Autism Acceptance Walk demonstrate the power of community,” said Lynn Pietroski, Chief Executive Officer of The Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence. “When we come together, we help create a more inclusive region where every person is valued and supported.”
The Mizfitz Riding for Life, a Canton-based riding club, won the largest team donation, raising $2,000. Second place team fundraiser was Recycle, raising
The ‘Mystery Gang’ won first place in the costume contest at the Autism Awareness Walk.
The flag contest winner was won by Loretta and Jaxson Hall for their autism quilt.
Returning this year to emcee the event was WWNY-TV 7 News anchor, Jeff Cole.
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his year’s sponsors include Casella Waste Systems, Alcoa, Community Bank, Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc., NYSID, OneDigital, UFSO and Performance Foodservice, Alesco Advisors, Kinney Drugs Foundation, Niles Asset Management, Northern New York Community Foundation, Community Health Center, Edf renewables, Elks, Merkley Heating & Cooling, North Country Savings Bank and St. Lawrence Supply, A.W. Collins, Hill& Marks, JC Merriman’s, Meade Optical, Palmer Realty, Pepsi of Ogdensburg, S. Lawrence FCU and St. Lawrence Gas.