Owen McIsaac joins Springfield Falcons mascot Screech during the Walk Now For Autism Speaks Western New England kick-off July 23 at Interskate 91. (Photo by Hope E. Tremblay)
WESTFIELD – The Western New England Walk Now For Autism Speaks Committee kicked-off its fundraising season this week and participants are gearing up for the walk Sept. 26 at Stanley Park.
The kick-off took place at Interskate 91 South in Wilbraham, where more than 100 families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder, and supporters of those families, were able to roller skate in a sensory-friendly environment.
“It was wonderful to see so many families trying skating for the first time,” said Kate O’Neill, Autism Speaks senior field director. “Too often venues like a skating rink can be overwhelming to someone with a sensitivity to sound or light. We are very grateful to Interskate 91S for giving this opportunity to our families.”
Becca Matthew and her daughter Carleigh take a turn around the skating rink during the Walk Now For Autism Speaks Western New England kick-off July 23 at Interskate 91. (Photo by Hope E. Tremblay)
In this rink, on this night, accommodation was key. Music volume was kept low, lighting was subtle and consistent, and the rules were bent to allow parents in shoes on to the parquet to accompany young learners – some of whom took to skating in an immediate, confident manner.
“We tried it and I think he really enjoyed it,” mom Becca Matthew, of Westfield, said of her son Jesse’s turns on the rink. “It was great to be able to be right there with him and not be crowded or overwhelmed by noise.”
Members of the WNE Walk Committee spoke about the community partnerships formed, including with the AHL Springfield Falcons, who showed their support by bringing their mascot Screech to the event.
Seneca Peterson gets tha hang of skating during the Walk Now For Autism Speaks Western New England kick-off July 23 at Interskate 91. (Photo by Hope E. Tremblay)
The Committee’s mission includes raising awareness and funds, but also to create opportunities for people on the autism spectrum. Events such as the upcoming sensory-friendly open house at the West Springfield Fire Department, set for Aug. 8 from 1-3 p.m. at 44 Van Deene Ave., and another upcoming open house at the Southwick Police and Fire Departments, are just an example of how Autism Speaks is working to enhance the lives of those on the spectrum in western Massachusetts.
Speaker Gilberto “Tono” Molina testified to the positive effects of the Committee and the autism community here.
A self-advocate and student leader, 17-year old Molina talked about the importance of family, support, and dreams that sustain him and inform his current goals. He said he is also interested in learning more about leadership and teamwork.
“Just last week I attended two leadership conferences,” Molina said. “One with Best Buddies in Indiana and the other was the Massachusetts Youth Leadership Forum in Bridgewater.”
In the fall, Molina will be a junior at Springfield Central High School, where he plans to devote himself not only to obvious academic pursuits, but to some of his favorite past times as well: making stop-action Lego movies and making people laugh.
“In the few years since I’ve known him, Tono Molina has really found his voice. To see him stand up there and talk about his life was a great moment – I’m sure it was for his parents, as well. We are all so proud of his accomplishments,” said O’Neill.
O’Neil touted the work of the Committee, which includes volunteers from throughout western Massachusetts.
“Our volunteer leaders and committee members give a lot of time and energy to Autism Speaks,” she said. “They develop programs, they organize events like this, and most importantly they serve as ambassadors to the wider community. We couldn’t do any of this without their support and generosity of time.”
If anyone is interested in learning more about volunteering on the Committee or helping with the walk, contact O’Neill at [email protected] or 617-726-1515.
To register a team – or join a team – visit www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/wne.
