Dufferin Autism Walk Returns to Orangeville This Weekend

The 9th Annual Dufferin Autism Walk is set to take place at Fendley Park in Orangeville this weekend, promising an inclusive event for participants of all ages and abilities. Scheduled for September 28, 2023, registration opens at 10:00 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies at 10:45 a.m., and the walk commencing at 11:00 a.m. Attendees can choose between one- to three-kilometre routes along the park’s scenic trails.

This year, registration is free, with fundraising efforts supported through a raffle table, silent auction, and sponsorships. Karrie Daponte, the event organizer, emphasized the significance of the walk, stating, “It’s a free, fun-filled event for all ages and abilities… Events like this are imperative to bring to our community. Not only for the ASD community but for the whole community. It’s an inclusive event for all.”

In addition to the walk, attendees can look forward to various activities including crafts, dance demonstrations, musical performances, and an IODE Child Fingerprint Clinic. The event also features emergency vehicle tours, a vendor area, and goodie bags for the first 100 special needs individuals and their siblings who attend.

A new collaboration this year features Tori Spiteri, owner of Inclusive Perspectives Sensory Gym in Orangeville, which provides a safe sensory space for children and youth with autism. Proceeds from this year’s walk will support social groups at the gym and within the community. Daponte explained the goal of these groups, stating, “We hope to host a few groups, given that the ages of our ASD walk participants range from one to 60. These group sessions will be free, and it’s a time to meet new friends and be with families of similar diagnoses.”

The event will also see the participation of Theo, a six-year-old resident of Orangeville with autism, who has been named the walk’s ambassador. He will lead the walk, while his father, Mark, will address attendees during the opening ceremony, sharing insights into their family’s journey.

This year’s walk marks a shift in branding from the previous Autism Speaks Canada Walk, as the charity ceased operations on January 31, 2023. To date, approximately $1,000 has been raised through earlier fundraisers and vendor fees, including events held at M&M Food Market and Boston Pizza.

Daponte highlighted the importance of the event for local families, noting that it offers a welcoming environment for the autism community. “For the ASD community, it’s a time to come to an event in the community that they might not necessarily have the opportunity to attend if not hosted by us,” she said. “It’s a time to feel comfortable in your surroundings and not be worried about anyone staring or judging your parenting.”

The walk is scheduled to proceed rain or shine, with organizers aiming for an attendance of 250-300 people. Daponte expressed optimism about the event’s success, stating, “Together, our mission, like all other years, is ultimately bringing the community together, spreading and increasing education, awareness, and most importantly, acceptance.”

Fendley Park is located at 11 Fendley Road, Orangeville. Registration for the walk can be completed either at the event or in advance by visiting tinyurl.com/ybmabvk3.