Autism Community Day attracts record crowd on Saturday
Over 300 people attended annual event at Grant County Courthouse in Ephrata.
Updated
Autism Support Group of Grant County organizers: Donna Nelson (left), Trina Hampton, Michelle Clark, Valerie Roberts, and Stephanie Kane (not pictured, Kathy Hamlett). Photo by Diana Alvarez
EPHRATA — The Grant County Courthouse lawn was filled with laughter, smiles and community spirit on Saturday (Sept. 19) as the Autism Support Group of Grant County hosted its annual Autism Community Day.
Families traveled from communities throughout Grant County, and some from outside the county, to enjoy a free day designed to bring families together, provide access to local and state resources, and create a welcoming place for people affected by autism.
Organizers said an estimated 300 people attended this year’s event, making it the largest Autism Community Day gathering to date.
The day offered something for everyone, including bounce houses, face painting, a photo booth, T-shirt tie-dye, yard games, and Sheriff’s Posse rides. First responders were also present, giving families an opportunity to interact with them in a fun and welcoming environment.
Families enjoying one of three bounce houses featured at Saturday's event (above). Below, EMS personnel gave Kaden Nelson a practice ride on how a stretcher is loaded into an ambulance. Photos by Donna Nelson
For the Autism Support Group of Grant County, the event is about much more than the activities.
"We do this for the families. Many parts of life with autism can feel isolating, and our main goal is to reach families and let them know they are never alone," said Donna Nelson, the organization’s president. "Our team works year-round to ensure this event is inclusive for not just our Autism families but the community."
"We are very proud of what this event has become," said Nelson.
That message resonated with families who traveled significant distances to attend. One mother who brought her family from Ritzville described the feeling of finding a community “that understands.”
“What a relief to know I’m not alone,” she said.
Another local mom, Hailee Ostrem, said, "I felt right where I needed to be, I loved sharing my story with other mommas. It was absolutely amazing and every year truly just gets better."
Families had the opportunity to meet others who understand their experiences, discover local and state resources, and simply spend time together without feeling the need to explain themselves.
Autism Support Group of Grant County organizers credited the event’s success to the volunteers, first responders, sponsors, resource organizations and community members who helped make the day the “best Autism Community Day yet.”
Layne Parker had some festive makeup applied with face painting by Kimmy's Kloset (left). At right, Lexi Hoskins enjoyed a horseback ride provided by the Grant County Sheriff's Posse. Photo by Hailee Ostrem
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Autism Community Day attracts record crowd on Saturday
Over 300 people attended annual event at Grant County Courthouse in Ephrata.
EPHRATA — The Grant County Courthouse lawn was filled with laughter, smiles and community spirit on Saturday (Sept. 19) as the Autism Support Group of Grant County hosted its annual Autism Community Day.
Families traveled from communities throughout Grant County, and some from outside the county, to enjoy a free day designed to bring families together, provide access to local and state resources, and create a welcoming place for people affected by autism.
Organizers said an estimated 300 people attended this year’s event, making it the largest Autism Community Day gathering to date.
The day offered something for everyone, including bounce houses, face painting, a photo booth, T-shirt tie-dye, yard games, and Sheriff’s Posse rides. First responders were also present, giving families an opportunity to interact with them in a fun and welcoming environment.
For the Autism Support Group of Grant County, the event is about much more than the activities.
"We do this for the families. Many parts of life with autism can feel isolating, and our main goal is to reach families and let them know they are never alone," said Donna Nelson, the organization’s president. "Our team works year-round to ensure this event is inclusive for not just our Autism families but the community."
"We are very proud of what this event has become," said Nelson.
That message resonated with families who traveled significant distances to attend. One mother who brought her family from Ritzville described the feeling of finding a community “that understands.”
“What a relief to know I’m not alone,” she said.
Another local mom, Hailee Ostrem, said, "I felt right where I needed to be, I loved sharing my story with other mommas. It was absolutely amazing and every year truly just gets better."
Families had the opportunity to meet others who understand their experiences, discover local and state resources, and simply spend time together without feeling the need to explain themselves.
Autism Support Group of Grant County organizers credited the event’s success to the volunteers, first responders, sponsors, resource organizations and community members who helped make the day the “best Autism Community Day yet.”