Autism Walks in Columbus

November 4, 2022 Autism Walks in Columbus

Autism walks have become one of the best ways to raise awareness for this condition, encouraging people to raise funds for research and for local services geared toward people on the autism spectrum. In Columbus, Georgia, there are two main walks that happen every year. Learn more about them here.

What Are Walks for Autism?

Autism walks help raise awareness about the challenges people who are on the autism spectrum face. They can be excellent fundraising events and bring people together over this common cause. By raising funds, walks for autism seek to improve local autism services, research, and more. Everyone is welcome to participate. Because the people who host these walks understand the challenges of those with autism, they provide safe and quiet areas where participants can take a break.

The Main Walks in Columbus, Georgia

There are two major autism walks in Columbus, Georgia. The walks take place every year, and both happen in October.

Autism Speaks Walk

The Autism Speaks Walk is the largest autism fundraising event in the world. It’s a walk dedicated to offering support to those affected by autism. Money raised by the walk goes to fuel research projects, critical services and programs in the area, and advocacy. When you register for the walk, you can set your fundraising goal and make personal donations. Because people with autism can experience sensory overload, the walk provides quiet spaces if it all becomes too much. There are also pre-walk guides that can help someone with autism get acquainted with the route so they know what to expect. Children are welcome to participate. Although there’s no registration fee, there is a minimum donation of $150 that participants must raise. In Atlanta, the walk begins at The Battery Atlanta, 800 Battery Ave., SE Atlanta, GA 30339. Learn more by writing to walk@autismspeaks.org.

Georgia Race for Autism

The Georgia Race for Autism includes a 5K, 1-mile run or walk, along with a tot trot and a 100-yard dash. The funds the race raises go to the SPECTRUM Autism Support Group, helping to provide camps and other special events for those on the autism spectrum. SPECTRUM sponsors seven weeks of summer camps, as well as programs throughout the school year. These programs and events help children on the autism spectrum to develop social skills and build friendships. The race takes place at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in October. The 5K begins at 8 a.m., and registration begins at 6:30 a.m. After the race, participants can enjoy the Fall Festival, featuring vendors from all over the city and family-oriented activities. Activities include:

Petting zoo
Face painting
Hamster balls
Corn hole games
Inflatable slides and obstacle course

There will also be a clown to entertain the children, food vendors, and a silent auction, in addition to other treats. The silent auction is another way to raise funds for autism research, advocacy, and special programs. To learn more about the Georgia Race for Autism, email Claire@atl-spectrum.com.

Final Thoughts

We hope you found this autism support group list useful. If you are looking for the best ABA therapists in Columbus, give us a call. Our team is ready to help and will treat your child like family.