A dedicated group of senior walkers from Burwood Brickworks In Melbourne’s inner-East has stepped up in a big way for this year’s Walk for Autism, raising thousands of dollars and inspiring others with their community spirit.
Led by local Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor Chrissy Dunienville, the group comes together twice a week at Burwood Brickworks Shopping Centre for a one-hour walking and exercise session at the centre, which generously supports the initiative by offering it free to the community. The group averages around 50 participants per session, mostly seniors, and this year many members eagerly took on the Walk for Autism challenge, clocking up their steps and rallying donations throughout May.
“We’re always keen to get involved in meaningful fundraising efforts, and Walk for Autism really resonated with our members,” said Chrissy. “Many in the group have personal or family connections to autism, and this was a wonderful opportunity to support awareness and inclusion in our community.”
Chrissy said the initiative has also sparked important conversations. “One group member shared that just by participating in this fundraising activity, they discovered autism in a few families, which they were not aware of. There is a hope among our group that the stigma about autism can be eradicated so that we can all live in a more inclusive and understanding society.”
Walk for Autism is Aspect’s major annual fundraiser, with thousands of Australians walking 7,000 steps a day to support the 1 in 40 Australians who are Autistic. The event highlights the mental health challenges faced by 70% of Autistic people, challenges that stem not from autism itself but from a world that is often not autism-friendly.
Dr Vicki Gibbs, Head of Research at Aspect, said Walk for Autism is a powerful way to highlight these urgent challenges and create change.
“This year, we want to drive home the fact that 70% of Autistic people experience mental health challenges, a number that’s far too high,” said Dr Gibbs. “A world that isn’t designed for Autistic people makes everyday life more difficult and contributes to these struggles. We need to change that.
“At Aspect, we’re actively working to create a more inclusive society. Our Autism Friendly Team collaborates with businesses, transport hubs, venues and public spaces across Australia, offering expert guidance to help make environments more accessible. Education is key, because understanding fosters empathy, acceptance and real change.”
Dr Gibbs encourages everyone to support this initiative: “An autism-friendly world benefits us all. Embracing diverse perspectives supports innovation and growth, and many accommodations that support Autistic people can improve experiences for everyone.”
There’s still time to support the Burwood Brickworks team and all those walking to build a more inclusive Australia. Donations remain open, and every dollar makes a difference.
To support Walk for Autism visit www.walkforautism.org.au