Image Credit: Kent Simmonds / CFJC Today

By Dylana Kneeshaw

2024 WALK FOR AUTISM

Chris Rose Walk for Autism set for Saturday

Apr 15, 2024 | 5:30 PM

KAMLOOPS — This weekend will mark the 13th year of the Chris Rose Walk for Autism. The Kamloops event has grown steadily since it was first held in 2011 and the non-profit organization it raises money for has also become a vital part of the neurodiverse community.

The Chris Rose Therapy Centre for Autism works with people on the Autism spectrum to help them reach social and educational goals. Executive Director Wanda Eddy says the centre’s work is often done with a focus on trying to re-integrate children into the school system.

“In order for children to be able to function in the world, so that they can tolerate loud noises, so that they can tolerate change, so that they can tolerate telling us what’s going on for them — that’s really what our goal is,” she explains. “We need to fundraise for about 50 per cent of our operating budget, so the walk is really essential for that.”

The donation and pledge goal for this year’s event is around $10,000. Money raised by the walk will go toward programs and services for children, youth and adults at the therapy centre.

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“We just really encourage you all to come out and support the children,” adds Eddy, “but I really want to emphasize that this community has supported the Chris Rose Therapy Centre for so many years. We’re so grateful for it and I know they’ll come out like they always do.”

Registration can be completed online ahead of time or in-person on the day of the walk, starting at 10:00 a.m. The walk begins at 11:00 a.m. this Saturday (April 20) from McArthur Island, ending with a fundraiser BBQ hosted by the North Kamloops Lions Club at the Chris Rose Therapy Centre on Tranquille Road.