“It takes an Angel to embrace a child with autism, thanks for being an Angel”, is the famous tag line use by all ASP speakers to end their lecture. Through the years, the word angel is associated with autism and Autism Society Philippines prompting ASP to call its walk “Angels Walk for Autism” to distinguish it from all other walks.
The first Angels Walk was a bold step embarked by ASP to kick off the celebration of the National Autism Consciousness Week in 2007. With very limited time for the preparation and resources to be mobilized, ASP relied on the passion of its trustees, staff, members and volunteers. Through hard work, coupled with prayers, the first Angels Walk at the Cultural Center of the Philippines ground was an astounding success, more than 2,000 participants joined, major tv and radio networks covered the event. The Philippine Daily Inquirer and other newspaper published articles on autism for one week. The event pave the way for ASP to be elevated as a major player in the disability sector who can mobilize thousands to advocate for the rights and welfare of persons with autism and their families.
With the basics and momentum established, the program improved and the participants grew in number each year. The 2008 walk at the Quezon Memorial Circle was joined by more than 3,000, the 2009 walk at SM Mall of Asia by more than 4,000 and the 2010 walk still at SM Mall of Asia by more than 5,000 participants.
Come January 16, ASP expects to surpass the 2010 walk attendees. So come on, let us reach out to other Autism Angels to fly to SM Mall of Asia to join the 2011 walk and together let’s soar higher to reach our dream of an
Autism Friendly Community!
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| Angels Walk 2011 poster |
*click image for larger view
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