Autism Awareness Picnic and Fundraiser Comes to Pacific Palisades

Autism awareness takes center stage in Pacific Palisades on Sunday, April 7 at the recreation center, with the "Go Blue or Go Home Picnic."

The Yogurt Shoppe and Encino-based organization Working With Autism (WWA) are co-hosting a fundraising event to raise money for Autism Speaks, a worldwide autism science and advocacy organization. It's from 12 to 3 p.m.

There will be plenty of food provided by various catering carts and companies and many fun activities for children of all ages. All donations will be accepted, in the effort to raise money on behalf of the 2013 Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

From the time of its inception in 1997, WWA has had one simple and clear mission, promoting the growth and success of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), according to Executive Director Jennifer Sabin. As the number of kids receiving this diagnosis has continued to be on the rise, they have maintained a commitment each year to provide quality services that have a measurable positive impact on a child's development.

"While grounded in research, what our agency offers goes beyond the science of behavior analysis," Sabin said. "Every member of our team is at the core, a person who is passionate and dedicated to improving the lives of the children with whom they work."

Sabin noted Sunday's event event is not only about a day of fun for their families and members of the community, but also a representation of WWA's gratitude for being given the chance to work with each child who walks in through our door.

"We celebrate the work we have been able to do and strive to raise awareness for the need for ongoing research to make additional gains possible for all individuals with ASD," she added. "We hope that the community will turn out to join us in recognition of autism's prevalence, its major impact on the lives of so many, and the necessity of raising funds for supporting efforts to decode its mysteries."

For more information on WWA, visit its website.

A local business in Brentwood did its part this week to raise autism awareness, too.

Pacific Palisades Patch: Facebook | Twitter | E-mail Updates |