Play for a Purpose

Spring weather have you outdoors? Break out your golf clubs and sneakers to benefit local children's causes.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 1 in 110 children has some form of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). More children will be diagnosed with autism than with aids, diabetes and cancer. According to autismspeaks.org, every 15 minutes a family receives news that its child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder. To date, the CDC reports that there is no cure. However there are many organizations providing funding for research, advocacy, special therapies and more.

If you are unfamiliar with Autism, the CDC defines ASD as “a group of developmental disabilities that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.” There are three categories: Autistic Disorder, Aspberger's and Pervavsive Developmental Disorder (PDD-NOS). To learn more about the symptoms and the differences between these types of ASD, please visit the CDC ASD page at http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html

While the causes of ASD are still hotly debated by many medical practitioners and scientists, I think we can all agree that it is an important health issue. Acworth and Greater Atlanta are very involved with helping children and families who are coping with ASD. Several local events will be held this Spring to raise money and generate awareness.

The Second Annual Emma's Emmbassadors Golf Tournament will be held at the (now Cannongate) in Acworth on Monday May 2, 2011 to benefit Emma's Emmbassadors, a local non-proft which works to “financially support the developmental needs of children with Autism and their families in North Georgia and the surrounding areas”. Sponsors and players can still sign up by going to www.emmasemmbassadors.org or by visiting their Facebook page.

In partnership with the Marcus Autism Center of Atlanta, the 2011 Georgia: Walk Now for Autism Speaks will take place at 11 am on Sunday May 22, 2011. A resource and registration fair will start at 9am. This two mile walk starts and ends at the International Plaza at Georgia World Congress Center 103 Magnum Street Atlanta, Ga 30313. Register as an individual or team or just logon to donate to the cause. Corporate sponsorships are still available. Autism Speaks is the nation's largest autism science and advocacy organization “dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.”

Most of us know a child with ASD. Help the cause and play a few holes or walk-- not just for fun, but for a purpose. See you there!