2024 Gala, courtesy of Autism in The D
In Michigan, approximately 25,147 children were identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the 2022-2023 school year, reflecting national trends with 1 in 36 children affected by the condition. As Autism Awareness Month begins, Detroit is gearing up to highlight the importance of inclusion and accessibility for autistic children. Autism In The D (AITD) is partnering with Centria Autism and Children’s Hospital of Michigan for a weekend of impactful events on April 5-6, including the second annual A Night of Inclusivity Gala and the fifth annual Autism Walk. The walk will take place in the newly accessible courtyard of the Children’s Hospital of Michigan, helping to raise essential funds for Detroit’s first autism-inclusive and adaptive kids’ gym.
When Detroit mom Tiera Moultrie’s son was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in 2019, she quickly realized the city lacked inclusive spaces and resources for children like him. Determined to create change, she founded Autism In The D in 2020, launching its first-ever Autism Awareness Walk that same year. Now, her organization is teaming up with Centria Autism and Children’s Hospital of Michigan to kick off Autism Awareness Month with a weekend of events focused on inclusivity, advocacy, and announcing an adaptive kids’ gym coming to Detroit.
“I know first-hand the experience of parents and caregivers supporting loved ones with ASD and the type of help that’s needed,” Moultrie said.
“As a two-time autism mom, I’m grateful for the opportunity to help others navigate life with autism and help foster a sense of understanding, acceptance, and hope. With every event we host, every dollar we raise, and every heart we touch, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for those living with autism.”
The Night of Inclusivity Gala hosted by AITD is a fundraising dance designed to cultivate a sense of community while providing an environment of joy, celebration, and support for those with autism. This year’s gala promises to be more exciting than the previous one, with nearly 100 attendees registered. Guests will have the chance to engage in a silent auction, listen to guest speaker Michelle Fuhr, a behavioral professor from Wayne State University, and enjoy a live performance by Charity, hailing from Detroit.
At this year’s gala, AITD will also honor local heroes who have had a significant impact on the autism and behavioral community. Some of the honors that will be presented include the Excellence in Therapy award, Community Impact Award, Youth Inclusion Award, and Heart of the Community Award.
AITD expects more than 1,000 participants for Detroit’s 5th Autism Day Walk this year. The event will take place in the beautiful, tree-lined central courtyard and playground behind Children’s Hospital of Michigan, with free covered parking available just off Mack Avenue near Beaubien. The walk will feature resources from organizations such as the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network and the Detroit Public Schools Community District. Additionally, there will be a live Q&A session with lead sponsor Centria Autism and Mostyn Community Development.
2024 4th Annual Autism Walk, courtesy of Autism in The D
Attendees will also experience onsite activations from Pose Selfie Museum and The Paint Bus, sensory activities, receive access to childcare assistance information, and meet local professionals specializing in autism care.
Timothy Yeager, Chief Clinical Officer at Centria Autism emphasized she is thrilled to continue our partnership with Autism in the D.
“As an organization, Centria Autism provides high-quality, assent-based ABA therapy and support to children with autism and their families, with our largest client-base being here in Detroit,” Yeager said.
“We are committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of the individuals, the families, and the communities we serve and our partnership with Autism in the D is representative of that. We appreciate Autism in the D for their advocacy, their educational tools, and their support for this community, and look forward to a year of great partnership.”
Children’s Hospital of Michigan, a leader in Michigan in evaluation and options for children on the spectrum, is delighted to host this signature event and support the work being done on behalf of children with autism.
Children’s Hospital of Michigan CEO Archie Drake highlighted that doctors, occupational therapists, psychologists, and other team members with high levels of expertise in autism provide support to children and families from throughout the state of Michigan every day.
“To be able to celebrate their wins, the challenges they’ve overcome and their future success by hosting the walk is truly our honor. We look forward to this great annual event,” Drake said.
For more information on the weekend events and how to donate and make nominations, visit AutismInTheD.com.
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