Pasco Autism Walk to Raise Funds, Awareness

One in 88 children has been identified as having autism — a disorder that crosses racial, ethnic and class lines, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

April is Autism Awareness Month, and New River Elementary School in neighboring Wesley Chapel is calling attention to the disorder. The educational facility will host The Pasco County Autism Walk from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 27. It is open and free to the public.

The event, to be held at the school, will include a walk and fun run, plus games, food and entertainment. Money will be raised through the sale of T-shirts, food and a gift basket bonanza.

“It’s to represent and show support,” said Lisa Valenta, who teaches kindergarten in New River’s Autism Spectrum Disorder unit. The unit serves about 30 students with autism in kindergarten through fifth-grade, Valenta said. 

Funds raised Saturday will help the autism program purchase equipment and supplies, including new technology. Principal Lynn Pabst urged the community to come out for the walk.

"We are very excited to host the Pasco County Autism Walk, the walk is an excellent way for friends, family, and community to come together to support a great cause," she said in a news release. 

New River Elementary School's address is 4710 River Glen Blvd. in Wesley Chapel. For more information, call 813-346-0500 or visit http://nres.pasco.k12.fl.us on the web. 

See also:

Petition Demands National Autism Plan: Does America Need One?

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