Autism Speaks has invested over $1,450,000 in Washington communities by funding autism research at the University of Washington, establishing an Autism Treatment Network site, providing families with 100 day kits, and offering a comprehensive resource list.

Event recaps:

The Ride Now for Autism was held in Seattle on June 21. Over 60 bikers enjoyed the great weather with a Barbecue at the Downtown Harley in Tukwila with food from the Longhorn BBQ. Lots of funds were raised for autism research while tons of fun was had!

The Tacoma Walk Now for Autism was held on Saturday, July 19 at 9:00 a.m. at Cheney Stadium. It raised $86,354!

The Seattle Walk Now for Autism was held on Saturday, Oct. 4 at U.W. Dempsey Indoor Arena. It raised $258,000!

Advocacy Alert:   

Help pass an insurance parity act in the state legislature this year.  Visit www.waautisminsurance.org

Spotlight article:   Melanie Roach, Olympic weightlifter, mother of a child with autism, owner of Roach Gymnastics and wife of Rep. Dan Roach has been named Honorary Co-Chair for the Seattle Walk Now for Autism on October 4, 2008, at Dempsey Indoor Arena at the University of Washington. Melanie holds the record as the first woman to lift double her weight. At these Olympics she lifted a career best and set a new American Record for weightlifting. However, as Melanie says it takes an even stronger person than a weightlifter to be the parent of a child with autism. To view her interview on The Today Show visit:   http://www.autismspeaks.org/inthenews/melanie_roach_today.php

Greg “Mutt” Haugen also named Honorary Co-Chair for the Walk is a three time lightweight world boxing champion and the grandfather of a child with autism. He was recently named to the Boxing Hall of Fame. He began a foundation called The Greg Haugen Foundation which will champion the cause to fight autism. Haugen’s mission is “To work to find the cure and the cause of autism, and provide a safe, healthy environment for all the kids of our community, guided by the greatest champions in the world.” Haugen has also put together his own walk team for the event called, Team Haugen. To learn more about Haugen’s foundation visit: www.greghaugenfoundation.com