You may have seen posters around town or on the Hormel Historic Home Facebook page with information regarding the Stepping Out for Autism Walk scheduled for Saturday, April 26.

This event, in its third year, raises awareness and funds for the two summer camps sponsored by the HHH for youth diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. These camps are supported by the United Way of Mower County, the Hormel Foundation and many corporate and individual contributors. We rely on your help to ensure that a portion of the more than 100 kids in Mower County with ASD can attend a camp. Please join us for the walk on the 26th if you are able.

Registration forms for individuals, families, and teams are available on our website www.hormelhistorichome.org.

It is common for organizations today to use a ribbon or a specific color to represent their specific cause. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has awarded the Autism Society of America a trademark for their Puzzle Ribbon logo as a result of its years of use, work and investment. According to their website, www.autism-society.org, “the design is said to symbolize the mystery and complexity of autism. The different colors and shapes represent the diversity of people and families living with this developmental disorder. The brightness of this awareness ribbon signals hope. Hope that through research we will soon identify the causes and a cure for autism. And hope that through increasing awareness of autism, persons with the disorder will lead fuller and more complete lives.”

The Autism Speaks organization uses a blue puzzle piece to represent their cause. They focus on supporting research and resources that will broaden the approach and treatment of individuals and families affected by Autism. They state on their website www.autismspeaks.org that “Each individual with autism is unique. Many of those on the autism spectrum have exceptional abilities in visual skills, music and academic skills. About 40 percent have average to above average intellectual abilities. Indeed, many persons on the spectrum take deserved pride in their distinctive abilities and ‘atypical’ ways of viewing the world. Others with autism have significant disability and are unable to live independently.

“About 25 percent of individuals with ASD are nonverbal but can learn to communicate using other means.”

Their goal is to make sure everyone on the Spectrum has an advocate.

The HHH is a member of the Autism Society of Minnesota and attempts to stay current on all research and advances regarding Autism. Our Autism team is looking for ways to expand our programming. If you are interested in learning more about our plans or helping to further our offerings please contact me at 507-433-4243 or holly@hormelhistorichome.org.

 Social Concerns Presented by Spruce Up Austin

Tuesday, April 15, 10 to 11 a.m., free.

Gretchen Ramlo, organization president, will share the accomplishments Spruce Up has had in the last 25 years and what they have planned for the future. Please call to let us know you are coming.

 Stepping Out for Autism Walk

Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Bandshell Community Park

Teams are forming now for the annual fundraising walk to support the summer camps offered by the HHH for area youth affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. Visit www.hormelhistorichome.org to print your registration form. Lunch (free will offering accepted) will be offered at 11 a.m. and Koo Koo Kanga Roo will perform at 11:30 a.m.