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Walk goes blue for autism

Fourth annual event in Vernon April 2 at Polson Park
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Morning Star file photo The fourth annual Autism Awareness Walk takes place April 2 in Polson Park.

Vernon is lighting it up blue as it spreads awareness about a condition affecting children.

Each April 2, Autism Speaks celebrates Light It Up Blue along with the international autism community, in commemoration of the United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day. Light It Up Blue is a global initiative that kicks-off Autism Awareness Month and helps raise awareness about autism.

Vernon’s fourth annual Autism Awareness walk joins the global efforts April 2 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Polson Park, co-hosted by the NONA Child Development Centre, the Okanagan Boys and Girls Clubs, Sky High Professional Group, North Okanagan Youth and Family Services Society and the Children and Youth with Special Needs branch of the Ministry of Children and Family Development. The event is a chance for families to come out and enjoy a day in the park while at the same time raising awareness about autism.

“This year we have a wonderful family, Shanda, Ethan, and Amelia Hammerton, that has come up with the idea of adding an area where kids on the spectrum or their siblings can display a craft or project,” said Kerry Casperson, one of the event organizers.

“It can be anything from a painting, Lego creation, or even a school project. We invite kids to please bring their craft to put in the display area.”

Meanwhile Sesame Street has brought on a new character - the new friend on the block is Julia, a four-year-old with autism.

See video at vernonmorningstar.com



Jennifer Smith

About the Author: Jennifer Smith

Vernon has always been my home, and I've been working at The Morning Star since 2004.
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