Steps of Hope 2012 - Eric's Golden Gophers

On March 4, 2012, we will once again participate in the annual Steps of Hope Walk to benefit the Autism Society of Minnesota. Eric was diagnosed with autism when he was three years old. It was a very hard diagnosis to receive, but we have been fortunate that he continues to respond well to his various therapies. While there is no cure for autism, our hope is that Eric will gain enough skills to live independently as an adult.

One organization that has been a tremendous help to us is the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM). Founded in 1971 by parents of children with autism, the organization provides support to individuals and family members impacted by autism. Some of their services include an information and referral line, a Discovery Series to help families understand their child’s diagnosis, social skills classes and summer camps for children on the spectrum, and an employment forum to help businesses understand how they can successfully integrate employees with autism into their workforce.

The annual Steps of Hope Walk raises both funds for AuSM and awareness about autism. Did you know that 1 in 110 children is now diagnosed with autism? More families than ever are receiving an autism diagnosis, and while work is being done to find a cause and cure, they cannot wait for help. AuSM provides help and hope to families. In addition to supporting the mission of AuSM, a portion of the proceeds from the Steps of Hope Walk are given back to the community in the form of Family Support Grants.

We hope you will consider supporting our fundraising efforts for AuSM by making a tax-deductible gift before March 4.

To learn more about autism and the Autism Society of Minnesota, please visit AuSM’s website at: www.ausm.org

Thank you for your support!

Carrie, Mike and Eric