Autism Speaks is dedicated to:

• Science and Research - leading us to answers and interventions
• Family Services - providing families with information, tools and resources
• Awareness - increasing public knowledge and understanding of autism 
• Advocacy - accelerating national and state autism legislation

Nationwide we have funded over $62 million and In Iowa, we have funded over $67,277 in these areas.

We invite you to join us in our efforts to better the lives of our loved ones affected by autism. Please take a moment to find out more about participating in national advocacy efforts, local community resources, upcoming events, and ways to get involved.

NEWS: 2009 Walk Now for Autism Iowa Kick Off Event on April 25th!

Please join us on Saturday, April 25, 2009 at the Merle Hay Cinemas, 3800 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, IA 50310 for the 2009 Iowa Kickoff Event. The event will educate, communicate and motivate team captains and walkers about the mission of Autism Speaks and the Walk Now for Autism fundraising event. There will be walk materials available to help actively fundraise and talk the walk, including:

• Iowa Walk brochures and posters
• Autism Speaks brochures
• Team Wrap Around Event information, including Puzzle Pieces and Posters
• Team Captain Packets

Registration and information tables open at 9:30 am. The presentation begins at 10:00 am.
 
A complementary showing of the award winning "Autism: The Musical" will begin immediately following the Kickoff Presentation.  All attendees are welcome to stay for the movie or simply collect walk materials and attend the presentation section of the Kickoff Event. "Autism: The Musical" is a ninety minute documentary that follows five LA children over the course of six months.  Director, Tricia Regan captures the struggles and triumphs of their family lives and observes how this musical production gives these performers a comfort zone in which they can explore their creative sides.  This uplifting film reveals the human stories around autism.

We will be serving popcorn and a beverage to enhance your theater experience.

Please click here to RSVP or call (866) 500-6227 by Monday, April 20, 2009.