Minot Walk for Autism returns for sixth year
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Minot Center for Pediatric Therapy (MCPT) is hosting its sixth annual Minot Walk for Autism Saturday at 10 a.m. at Oak Park in Minot.
MCPT focuses on improving the skills of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Its team of occupational therapists and speech pathologists have specialized training that centers on building confidence in communication and various everyday skills, which can often be a struggle for individuals with an ASD diagnosis.
"We work with families to ensure we are addressing what is most important to them and extend our support for children beyond their time at our clinic. Organizing the Minot Walk for Autism is one way we hope to ensure all families are seen and included in our community," said Kylee Geer, owner of MCPT.
For six years Geer, along with co-planner Shannon Schmidt, has been arranging the Minot Walk for Autism. The event was originally geared to help families of children and adolescents with an autism diagnosis to meet each other and form friendships.
"When we first had the idea for the walk, at that time, there were lots of moms that brought their children to my office with a diagnosis of autism, but they didn't necessarily know each other. It was just really about finding ways for families to connect. When you're raising a child with a disability, it can be really isolating," Geer said.
As the years rolled on, what started as a small gathering for families to meet each other has turned into a fully-fledged community rally. Last year, despite cold and rainy weather, the walk saw an attendance of 175 registered walkers who came out to show their support. With the hope for warmer weather, and with the assistance of other local businesses, this year they look for a turnout of more than 200.
Attendees will be greeted by Minot police officers and firefighters, who will be ready to show participants their vehicles. In addition to the presence of MPD and MFD, walkers will be accompanied by Minot High's varsity cheer team. This year there will be face painting provided by Nature's Nook. The Hitchin Kitchen will be parked and serving brunch, and Holly Sebo Photography will be there documenting this year's celebration.
This year Geer and Schmidt have decided to raise funds for local children and adolescents with an ASD diagnosis to participate in the Serenity Therapy Equine Program (STEP), located in Minot. STEP is a non-profit organization accredited by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International. STEP utilizes equine-assisted activities and therapies to help individuals with speech and language, social-emotional issues, and occupational and physical therapies through therapeutic riding, hippotherapy and equine-facilitated psychotherapy. Baked goods donated by Cookie Crumbs will be sold at this year's walk to help fundraising efforts.
Geer has personally seen the benefits of the program in her patients, saying, "It's really calming, and it gives them the opportunity to build a relationship and trust with the horse and the assistants. It’s fun seeing kids get comfortable riding. It gives them something that they’re successful at that they enjoy doing." MCPT hopes to bring STEP one stride closer to those who can benefit from it.
Participants are encouraged to use the Minot Walk for Autism page on Eventbrite to register.