Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) hosted its first YES Day for Autism, a fundraising and awareness campaign, culminating with a community event and celebration at Tempe Beach Park on Sunday, Oct. 24. 
To signify the 1 in 71 children identified with autism in Arizona, SARRC introduced the 71-day fundraising and awareness campaign in mid-August. During this time, teams had the chance to recruit members and fundraise leading up to the in-person event which featured nearly 50 autism resource providers, a free pumpkin patch, a carnival-style activity zone, and an array of entertainment.
"Our vision right from the start is about finding ways to say "yes" for people with autism and their families," said President & CEO Daniel Openden. "This event was a powerful way for us to celebrate all the ways that we do, and still want to, say "yes."
SARRC welcomed more than 100 teams, 33 event sponsors, and an estimated 1,500 attendees who participated in the in-person event. Participants and sponsors helped SARRC exceed the event fundraising goal of $300,000 by nearly $100,000.
Through SARRC’s YES Day for Autism, Arizona may proudly celebrate what’s possible when we work together, share resources, and collaborate effectively to say “yes” for people with autism and their families. And importantly, all dollars raised in Arizona for Arizona.
View the online photo gallery here!