Giant Steps to host Walk for Autism

Giant Steps therapeutic day school in Lisle is seeking supporters to register and fundraise for the Giant Steps 5K Walk for Autism sponsored by Navistar.

The walk on Saturday, Oct. 3, helps support the school's 160-plus students and adults with autism.

Participation in the family-friendly event is free, although walkers and teams are encouraged to raise money toward the 2015 goal of $200,000.

Participants will be able to check in starting at 8:30 a.m., with the welcome to begin the day at 9:30 a.m. and 5K stroller and wheel-friendly walk to start at 10 a.m. at Rich Harvest Farms, 7S771 Dugan Road, Sugar Grove.

Participants will have access to view the otherwise private course, which is consistently ranked in Golf Digest's America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses.

Following the walk, participants and their teams will enjoy a celebratory after-party with lunch served by Home Run Inn Pizza.

Families are encouraged to walk with their loved ones. Schools are invited to create a team or two. Corporations can make a team-bonding experience through fundraising and supporting the walk.

"While our therapeutic day school is located in Lisle, we serve students with autism from over 60 districts in Illinois," Katrina Meckes, Giant Steps director of development, said.

"It's heartwarming to know that our neighbors in Sugar Grove, the West suburbs, and all around the Chicagoland area support the great work that our staff and students are achieving together.

"From where I sit, I see how much our staff members care for our students and the creativity that they use to make sure they are supporting each individual in and outside of the classroom. I appreciate the opportunity to bring awareness to the community about who we are and what we do at Giant Steps."

Walkers may register at www.mygiantsteps.org/5k2015. They may also contact the development department by emailing kmeckes@mygiantsteps.org or calling (630) 864-8304.