Thousands of walkers - including individuals with autism, their families and friends - are expected to join together for the Autism Speaks' 9th Annual Long Island Walk Now for Autism on Oct. 5 at Jones Beach State Park, Field 5. The event is to raise much-needed funds for critical scientific research and to increase awareness about a growing health crisis that now affects one in every 150 children. All proceeds from the event benefit Autism Speaks, the nation's leading autism advocacy organization.

Last year's walk raised $2,283,000; this year's goal is $2.5 million.

Toys"R"Us, Toys"R"Us Children's Fund and Parade magazine proudly serve as national sponsors of the Autism Speaks Walk Now for Autism program. Other sponsors include Jewelers for Children, the New York Islanders, National Mah Jongg League, The Long Island Radio Group, AMDI (Advanced Multimedia Devices), Rebecca School, The Frank J. Antun Foundation, Cindy and David Wittels, Center for Wealth Preservation, Melville Financial Group, Mozel Charitable Trust, Marion K. Salomon & Associates, and Bloomberg.

Walk Now for Autism is a unique fundraising event which creates a safe and fun day for families who are affected with autism. The day includes a one- to two-mile walk and community resource fair with educational sources, therapists, schools, recreational organizations, and creative child-friendly activities; a true "one-stop-shop" for families affected by autism. This year, Toys"R"Us will have a tented space serving as home base for Geoffrey the Giraffe. Attendees will also be able to stop by and sign their children up for Geoffrey's Birthday Club and pick up the "Ten Toys That Speak to Autism" handout, a list of toys that help build the skills of children with autism, created in collaboration with Autism Speaks.

Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by extreme behavioral challenges. Another child is diagnosed every 20 minutes.