The inaugural Demopolis Autism Walk will be held on Saturday at Foscue Park, and event organizers are overwhelmed with the support they have received from the community.

Victoria Coleman and Amanda Harrison, two local moms who have children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, partnered to create this event. They had no idea how planning the first annual event would be. However, Coleman said the community showed out.

“We are so thankful that the Demopolis community has shown so much support for the first ever autism walk,” Coleman said. “The support has been so great that families will not have to pay anything to attend the event. All we ask is that you sign in and let us know that you came.”

Coleman said the event is geared towards families with a family member who has been diagnosed with autism and their caregivers. The event will be held at the center of Foscue Park in the pavilion. 

There will be plenty of events that will allow the children to play while their parents and caregivers can connect with local and state organizations who are there to support them.

“As we know it, there are a lack of resources in the area of Demopolis, and we wanted to host an event to bring different organizations to the city,” Coleman said. “We hope that parents and caregivers of children with autism or developmental delay gain resources and knowledge to help them on their journey.”

Some of the organizations attending included the Alabama Department of Mental Health, West Alabama Mental Health, Alabama Hands Autism Assistance Program, Children’s Rehabilitation Services and many more.

The event begins at 9:30 a.m. where kids can play while their parents can visit the booths of the organizations. Coleman said that Demopolis police and fire will also be on hand to provide security during the event.

The actual walk will begin around 11 a.m. with lunch to follow at 11:15 a.m. Once lunch is completed, there will be more time for children to play and parents to visit with the organizations until it ends at 12:30 p.m.

“We are so excited to see the community come together and help these parents and children,” Coleman said. “It’s been everyone from the mayor and council to the schools. The businesses have shown their generosity to us. We are so blessed to have this kind of support in our community.”

For more information on the walk, you may contact Coleman at 334-400-8604 or  atimetoshare07@gmail.com or contact Harrison at 205-887-7001 or harrisonamandaw@gmail.com. 

World Autism Day

April 2 is recognized globally as World Autism Awareness Day and serves as the kickoff to National Autism Acceptance Month. 

“Autism Awareness Month is about more than recognizing a diagnosis. It is about understanding the unique perspectives of individuals with ASD and empowering families to access the resources they need to thrive,” said ADMH Commissioner Kimberly Boswell.

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects how people interact, communicate, and experience the world around them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States have ASD, with more than 5.4 million adults in the U.S. are living with autism.

Research shows that early intervention can have a profound impact on the lives of individuals with autism, helping them build skills and achieve greater independence. ADMH remains committed to building a stronger network of care and understanding across Alabama.

ADMH offers comprehensive support to families through a range of programs, through the Office of Autism Services. These services are designed to guide individuals and their loved ones, from the initial diagnosis through the various stages of life, ensuring they have the tools and assistance needed to thrive.

The Alabama Interagency Autism Coordinating Council (AIACC) plays a critical role in autism-related policies and services across the state. By identifying needs, recommending solutions, and promoting initiatives, the AIACC works to create a more supportive environment for individuals with autism throughout Alabama.

Additionally, the Regional Autism Network (RAN) serves as a resource center, connecting families, educators, and providers with information, training, and technical support. The RAN also offers direct assistance to anyone seeking guidance.

For more information about ADMH’s Office of Autism Services, the AICC, the RAN, and additional programs, visit mh.alabama.gov/autism-services.

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