5K Walk supports Lisle autism school

The Giant Steps 5K Walk for Autism on Saturday, Oct. 1, will help the therapeutic day school meet the educational needs of children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders.

The Lisle-based organization's sixth annual 5K walk begins with registration at 8:30 a.m., a welcome at 9:30 a.m. and the walk at 10 a.m. at Rich Harvest Farms, 7S771 Dugan Road, Sugar Grove.

A pillar fundraising event for Giant Steps, the 5K walk has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years to support the school's mission. This year's fundraising will go toward the school's operating budget and will help fund the daily needs of students and staff.

"Our annual 5K walk is one of our most important events of the year because it brings together the entire community to work toward a common goal," Executive Director Sylvia Smith said. "The walk is an event anyone can participate in, no matter what age or physical ability level. It's also just a great way to celebrate the fall and get students excited about the school year."

This year's walk has a goal of raising $125,000. Participants can raise money individually or as a team by creating a profile at mygiantsteps.org/walk2016.

Based in Lisle, Giant Steps is designated as a therapeutic day school in Illinois licensed and certified to exclusively serve students with a primary diagnosis of autism.

The school serves elementary students through young adults with autism spectrum disorders, with a mission to improve a child's ability to interact, communicate and develop academic and daily living skills.

For information, visit mygiantsteps.org.