Autism inclusion tour to kick off at Sussex YMCA April 5
The YMCA of Delaware, in partnership with Autism Delaware, will hold a statewide acceptance and inclusion tour throughout April, featuring Alex the Autism Delaware Bear. Alex’s month-long trek to all Ys across the state will kick off with a visit to the Sussex Family YMCA at 11:45 a.m., Wednesday, April 5, at 20080 Church St., Rehoboth Beach. Alex will take part in a photo shoot and 1-mile walk for National Walking Day.
The tour focuses on welcoming those with autism into every aspect of the community – from sports and recreation to summer camp and the arts.
“The YMCA continues to play a vital role in building bridges, connecting communities and demanding equity for all,” said Jarrett Royster, YMCA of Delaware CEO. “The acceptance and inclusion tour is a great way to reach out to our diverse community while highlighting our uniqueness and celebrating what binds us together. The YMCA is welcoming for all.”
Alex the Autism Delaware Bear is named in honor of Alex Eldreth, Autism Delaware’s former public policy and community outreach director, who passed away unexpectedly in 2017. Eldreth was a passionate advocate for autism inclusion.
“Alex Eldreth lived our organization’s deep commitment to advancing real changes in Delaware’s policies to make autism inclusion more than just words,” said Brian Hall, Autism Delaware executive director. “And everything that Alex ‘the bear’ does at the YMCA shows the joy of working together for a world that welcomes people on the spectrum.”
