TORONTO, June 1, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Autism Speaks Canada, part of North America's largest autism science and advocacy organization, announced that the Autism Speaks Canada Walk, Toronto 2016 fundraising and awareness event will take place this Sunday, June 5, 2016 at Nathan Phillips Square. The festivities begin at 8:30 with the Walk taking place at 10:45 am. All event proceeds will support Autism Speaks Canada's work, both locally and nationally, to increase awareness about autism spectrum disorder, fund autism research and family support services, and collaborate with leaders across the country. Autism spectrum disorder is diagnosed in 1 in every 68 children.

The Autism Speaks Canada Walk events are the signature fundraising events for Autism Speaks Canada, raising nearly $1.2 million in 2015 to support autism research, services, awareness and advocacy.

Autism Speaks Canada Walk is a unique fundraising event that offers a safe and fun day for families living with autism. The day includes a Walk, fun acitivities, quiet zone as well as a Community Resource Fair that includes local service providers and nonprofit organziations. A true "one-stop-shop" for families living with autism.

"Thanks to tremendous community support and the work of our wonderful volunteers, our Autism Speaks Canada Walk event has made an enormous impact on the work that our organization is able to support each and every year," said Jill Farber, Executive Director. "In addition to raising funds and awareness, the Walk is a chance for families to come together, support each other, and make connections. Working together, we are making great strides towards impacting the lives of everyone living with autism."

"Thanks to the help of Walkers, sponsors and volunteers, 2016 is poised to be a great success," said Melanie Haydon, National Director Walks and Community Events, Autism Speaks Canada.

Toys"R"Us® and Babies"R"Us® will proudly serve as National Presenting Sponsors of the Autism Speaks Canada Walk. Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us will host a tented area at The Walk, serving as home base for the company's mascot Geoffrey the Giraffe. Thank you also to our Local Gold Sponsors; TMDL Asset Management and NFP; Grand Club Sponsor, Ellis Don; Local Snack Sponsors; Kernels Popcorn and McCafe and our media sponsor CTV.

For more information about the 2016 Autism Speaks Canada Walk - Toronto, please visit www.walknowforautismspeaks.ca or contact your walk manager at gtawalknow@autismspeakscan.ca.

CONTACT: Carrie Habert
         carriehabert@autsimspeakscan.ca
         
         Susan Smart
         susansmart@autismspeakscan.ca

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