The Autism Speaks foundation is increasing awareness, and advocating for those in need and their families. Seton Hall's SDA and NCBI chapter will pair up with Autism Speaks for the North Central New Jersey, Walk Now for Autism Speaks event.
A walk benefiting those who are affected by autism will occur on Oct. 16 in Nomahegan Park, in Cranford, New Jersey.
The Autism Speaks foundation, a co-sponsor of the walk said the walk is "our single most powerful force to fund vital research that will lead us to the answers we need," according to the Autism Speaks website.
Every 15 minutes, another family receives news that their child has an autism spectrum disorder, according to the site.
The website said the disorder is spreading fast, as it already affects one in 110 children, and an even more astounding, 1 in 70 boys; it is the fastest-growing developmental disorder in the nation.
"I think it is important to raise awareness on Autism so people realize there is nothing wrong with Autistic children," student Katie Riley said. "The sooner society realizes that children suffering from Autism are happy, loving and extremely intelligent children, the sooner people can learn to accept and appreciate the gifts these children have to offer."
The National Coalition Building Institute Chapter at Seton Hall (NCBI), Accompanying SDA, is a non-profit, international, leadership training organization that works to eliminate racism and all other forms of prejudice and discrimination.
Seton Hall's Student Disability Awareness organization is student-run and strives to reach out, connect, and support SHU students with and without disabilities.
The NCBI chapter at Seton Hall is one of sixty university chapters. Seton Hall's NCBI will be sponsoring the walk for Autism Speaks with SDA.
Registration for the walk is free.
The University will provide transportation to and from the North Central New Jersey's Walk Now for Autism.
Each registered walker who raises a minimum of 150 dollars will receive a Walk Now for Autism Speaks t-shirt.
Samantha Massei can be reached at samantha.massei@student.shu.edu.
