Lewes grand marshal announced for Walk for Autism
The grand marshal for the Lewes leg of the 2017 statewide Walk for Autism is Bradley Williams, a new participant in the Autism Delaware adult employment program. Autism Delaware Assistant Program Director Melissa Martin says they have begun the process to help him find a job that is a good match for his interests and abilities. Called Productive Opportunities for Work and Recreation or POW&R, for short, the program is a community-based initiative with full-time staff dedicated to helping adults on the autism spectrum find and be successful at employment, volunteer activities and recreation. "POW&R is one of the Autism Delaware programs funded by the proceeds from the Walk for Autism," says Autism Delaware Events Manager Deanna Principe.
"Bradley is not a typical grand marshal," says Principe. The 23-year-old Bridgeville resident has assumed additional responsibilities. He will be making announcements at the Lewes walk event, and has also been assembling packets for the walk team captains and distributing event fliers with his fellow POW&R participants. Plus, he has already recruited more than 20 people to walk with him and is planning a T-shirt–making party for his team.
Williams has also been praising the efforts of longtime walk sponsor Sharp Energy. One of the largest propane companies in the Mid-Atlantic region, Sharp Energy employs Bradley's father Barry Williams. "Sharp Energy has participated in the walk for six years. Sharp Energy is all about helping others," says Williams.
"We are proud of Bradley and appreciate his father's effort as well as Sharp Energy's on behalf of the Walk for Autism," says Autism Delaware Executive Director Teresa Avery. "Our goal this year is to raise $250,000. These funds will help provide family support, clinical services, advocacy at the state and local levels, and awareness as well as the POW&R program's services."
The Walk for Autism is a statewide fundraiser that begins with the Lewes leg Saturday, April 1, in Cape Henlopen State Park. It continues with the Wilmington leg Saturday, April 8, in Fox Point State Park. Organizers hope to attract a total of 3,000 walkers in both Lewes and Wilmington.
A celebration as well as a fundraiser, Autism Delaware's Walk for Autism is setting up a fun zone where hands-on crafts will be offered for children. Next door to the fun zone, the newest and latest in products and services especially for individuals and families affected by autism will be on display, and a well-maintained picnic area will invite walk participants to enjoy their box lunches from home or their purchases from food trucks open for business in the park.
For more information and to register, go to www.autismdelaware.org.
