Blaine Clark named grand marshal for Walk for Autism in Lewes April 16
Autism Delaware has announced the grand marshal for the Lewes leg of the 2016 statewide Walk for Autism is Blaine Clark. The 14-year-old Mariner Middle School student enjoys playing on his 3DS and Wii U, going to the movies with a large popcorn and Pepsi, and visiting his mother’s Milford office.
“I have a special place in my office for Blaine,” says Lucinda K. Bunting, DMD, of her Diamond State Dentistry office, “where the entire staff dotes on him. Everyone thinks Blaine is a seriously funny guy.”
Bunting is also captain of Team Diamond State Dentistry, which has been participating in the Walk for Autism for 10 years. Her entire staff not only walks the event but also fundraises. Sitting in reception is a collection bucket that fills as staff tell patients, friends and family about their effort to benefit Autism Delaware.
A statewide autism agency, Autism Delaware helps people and families affected by autism by addressing the range of services they need to live full lives as valued members of their communities.
“Families affected by autism need a wide range of services,” says Autism Delaware Executive Director Teresa Avery. “Autism Delaware works to provide family support, adult employment and health and wellness, clinical services, advocacy at both the state and local levels, and awareness. To meet the growing need, we need to continue to grow. Our goal for the Walk for Autism this year is to raise $200,000.”
Volunteers needed
Because of the scale of this year’s Walk for Autism in Lewes, many volunteers are needed to help plan and coordinate efforts. The event is actually a statewide fundraiser that begins with the Lewes leg Saturday, April 16, in Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes.
The fundraiser continues with the Wilmington leg Saturday, April 23 in Fox Point State Park. Organizers hope to attract 800 walkers in Lewes, who will gather before the walk to form the world’s largest human puzzle piece for entry into The Guinness Book of World Records. The puzzle piece is a symbol of autism.
A celebration as well as a fundraiser, Autism Delaware’s Walk for Autism is also setting up a fun zone where hands-on crafts will be offered to children. Next door to the fun zone, the newest and latest in products and services especially for individuals and families affected by autism will be on display, and a well-maintained picnic area will invite walk participants to enjoy their box lunches from home or their purchases from food trucks open for business in the park. “Volunteers are crucial for making all of this happen,” says Autism Delaware Event Manager Deanna Principe.
To volunteer, call 302-224-6020 or email volunteers@delautism.org. For more information, go to autismdelaware.org.
