Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada -Waterloo-Wellin

WATERLOO, Ontario, May 30, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Waterloo - Wellington Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada will raise awareness and funds for ASD advocacy, scientific research and services on June 1 at the Waterloo Memorial Recreational Complex.

All event proceeds will support Autism Speaks' work, both locally and nationally, to increase awareness about ASD, fund innovative scientific research and family services, and advocate for the needs of individuals with ASD and their families in Waterloo - Wellington and beyond.

Autism spectrum disorder is now diagnosed in 1 in every 68 children.

The Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are the signature fundraising events for Autism Speaks and Autism Speaks Canada, drawing hundreds of thousands of participants in 103 cities across Canada and the U.S. to support ASD research, services, awareness and advocacy.

Each Walk Now for Autism Speaks event is unique, offering a safe and fun day for families impacted by ASD. The day includes a 3 or 6 km Walk and Community Resource fair with educational sources, therapists, schools, recreational organizations, and creative child-friendly activities – a true "one-stop-shop" for the ASD community. The event will also include:Kidsability, National Service Dogs, Autism Services Waterloo Region, Autism Intervention Clinic of Guelph Inc. & Thrive with Autism, Development Services Resources Centre, The Cambridge Blades Hockey, Extend-A-Family, Pride Stables, Bennett Occupational Therapy Services, Cooking with Autism & RBC.

"Our Walk Now for Autism Speaks wouldn't be possible without the generosity and support of so many people in our community," said Amy Fitzpatrick, Regional Walk Manager,Southwestern Ontario. "We are helping to advance science and awareness nationally, while also supporting the important work of service providers, researchers and clinicians in our community and communities across North America. Once again, we are coming together to celebrate each other and share information."

Toys"R"Us® and Babies"R"Us® proudly serve as the national presenting sponsors of Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada.