- Annual event raises funds for AAoM outreach programs
- 5,000 Expected to Attend
The Autism Alliance of Michigan’s (AAoM) annual Autism Hero Walk presented by DTE Foundation returns to the Detroit Zoo on the morning of September 17th, 2022, from 7AM to 12 PM, with over five thousand families who are living with autism and their allies expected for a fun-filled one mile walk around the zoo. The event celebrates our everyday superheroes and raises funds for AAoM.
Teams of heroes raise funds in advance of the walk, with a goal of raising $250,000 in support of AAoM’s mission. Families and individuals can start their own teams or join an existing team. Teams that raise the most are designated as “super walkers.”
“At AAoM, we know that heroes are not limited to movie screens,” said Colleen Allen, President & CEO. “Heroes walk among us every day and the annual Autism Hero Walk gives us a chance to walk with them. Whether it’s a breakthrough moment at school or a new job opportunity, individuals with autism strive and succeed every single day. The Autism Alliance is here to support them and their families and to celebrate achievements – large and small – with a community that is strong, supportive, and truly heroic.”
A minimum donation of just $10 per person (ages two and up) gets admission to the event and all-day access to the Zoo. The funds raised from the Walk support the full mission of the Autism Alliance of Michigan which allows AAoM to continue to provide free services to thousands of Michigan families affected by autism. All who attend will have access to the following:
- Parking and admission to the Detroit Zoo for the entire day
- Complimentary Autism Hero Walk backpack
- Autism Resource Fair with over 50+ vendors
- Meet & Greet with Superheroes
- Arts & Crafts
- Entertainment & Games
Over the years, the annual Hero Walk has cumulatively raised over $1.5 million for AAoM. The Autism Hero Walk has grown to become Michigan’s largest gathering of the autism community.