Thousands expected for Walk Now for Autism Speaks at Mall of America^®

Free sensory friendly film at Theatres at Mall of America^® to follow the Walk

WHAT:

Autism spectrum disorder is now diagnosed in 1 in every 88 children making it the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.

In an effort to raise funds and awareness for autism advocacy, Mall of America^® will host the 2013 Walk Now for Autism Speaks on Saturday, Oct. 12.

All event proceeds will support Autism Speaks work, both locally and nationally, to increase awareness about the growing autism health crisis, fund innovative autism research and family services and advocate for the needs of individuals with autism and their families in Minneapolis and beyond.

The event will feature:

• A two lap walk around the Mall
• Community Resource fair with educational sources, therapists, schools, recreational organizations and child-friendly activities
• Meet and greets with Rebecca Yeh, Miss Minnesota 2013, who will participate in the walk and perform in the Rotunda. Yeh has a brother with autism and supports Autism Speaks.
• Highlight It Up Blue participants can get blue highlights in their hair in support of Autism Speaks
• Games, activities and prizes all morning long

Immediately following the Walk, guests are invited to Theatres at Mall of America^® for a free sensory-friendly showing of Corpse Bride. To make the show sensory-friendly, the theatre lights are turned up, the sound turned down and staff members are readily available to assist with concessions. All attendees can get up, dance and enjoy themselves in a supportive and friendly environment. In partnership with Autism Speaks, Theatres at Mall of America offers free sensory-friendly films every Saturday at 10 a.m. in conjunction with the Free Family Flicks program.

Autism Speaks has grown into the worlds leading autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.

VISUALS: -Thousands gathering for the Walk in the Rotunda

-60+ vendors set up in the Rotunda educating guests

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013

7 8 a.m.: Registration:

7 9:30 a.m.: Resource Fair with 60+ vendors:

8 a.m.: Opening ceremony in Rotunda with autistic boys singing national anthem

WHERE: Mall of America^® Rotunda

About Mall of America®

Mall of America is the nations largest retail and entertainment complex. At 4.2 million square feet, MOA is home to more than 520 world-class shops; Nickelodeon Universe®, the nations largest indoor family amusement park; SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, a 1.2 million gallon walk-through aquarium; Moose Mountain Adventure Golf; Theatres at Mall of America® - a 14-screen movie theater with VIP theatre and more. The Mall opened in August of 1992 and is located in Bloomington, Minn., just minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. Follow Mall of America on Facebook and Twitter or visit our blog.

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CONTACT:

SARAH SCHMIDT

Media Relations Specialist
sarah.schmidt@moa.net | 952.883.8805
Mobile: 952.240.9335