Spreading awareness of autism one step at a time

Post date: May 08, 2019 10:33:37 PM

On April 28th, the Wells-Ogunquit CSD Bridges team came together with many others to participate in the annual statewide Walk for Autism sponsored by the Autism Society of Maine (ASM). For several hours, team members and approximately 180 other participants walked around the campus of the University of New England to support the efforts of the ASM and raise awareness of autism. The event was also held the same day in Portland, Fryeburg, Bangor, and Farmington.

“This is our second year participating as a district,” commented WJHS Team Captain Heather Fenderson, a recreational therapist, and special education staff member at the junior high. “The funds help support programs, fuel innovative research and help make connections with services within the community to support the family or individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.”

This year, according to Fenderson, 119 teams walked to raise $28,657. Her team contributed by reaching its goal of raising $500. She added, “We are very grateful for the generous donations from our friends, family members, colleagues and members within our community. It is very special to be a part of a community (whose members) walk together to help spread awareness and understanding surrounding autism.”

The Walk for Autism participants from Wells Junior High School plus family members and friends are (from left to right) Doug Perley, Dianne Hussey, Ashley Hussey, Leah LePage, Alani Simmons, Kim McDonough, Heather Fenderson (in front wearing a headband), Lauren Rivera, Heidi Mitchell, Stephanie Guillemette, Cindy Roche, Tim Roche, Shannon Petrie, Shawn Kennedy, and Pat Endsley.