Plymouth High School junior Samantha Zechiel is back at it again planning the, A Walk on the Wild Side Family Fun Carnival, to help raise awareness that April is National Autism Awareness Month and to raise awareness about autism resources available in Marshall County.
On Friday, April 13, 2018 from 6-8 p.m. Autism Resources of Marshall County (ARMC) will hold A Walk on the Wild Side Family Fun Carnival at Menominee Elementary School in Plymouth.
The two-hour event will include games and fun activities for children, such as carnival games, a bouncy house, and concession type food and snacks for purchase. The event will take place in the Menominee cafeteria and gymnasium.
Funds will be raised through the sales of game tickets and food at the carnival. 100% of the proceeds will benefit ARMC. There is no cost to get in, but tickets will be $0.25 each or 5 for $1.00. Food and drinks, including hot dogs, pizza, chips, candy, popcorn, cotton candy, soda, and juice will range from $.50-$3.00.
Children and families affected by autism are encouraged to attend the event.
ARMC is a non-for-profit organization that improves the lives of all affected by autism through education, advocacy, services, research, and support.
Last year, Zechiel came up with the idea to host the Family Fun Carnival at Plymouth High School on a Saturday. The event raised $800 for ARMC. This year, she is hoping to raise more money and autism awareness by hosting the Family Fun Carnival with ARMC on a Friday at Menominee Elementary School.
Zechiel said, “My desire to raise awareness began when I was in seventh grade in English class while I was working in a group on a project. My passion to help raise awareness for autism has evolved for raising money to benefit ARMC by planning the Family Fun Carnival. Everyone is invited, there will be plenty to do and see for people of all ages.”
Zechiel has been working hard on planning the 2nd annual Family Fun Carnival with her classmates, teachers, community members, and ARMC. The Family Fun Carnival promotes autism awareness, autism acceptance, and draws attention to the tens of thousands facing an autism diagnosis each year. According to the autism-society.org autism prevalence is now one in every 68 children in America. Zechiel hopes families in Michiana will show their support for people with autism by volunteering or attending the Family Fun Carnival on Friday, April 13, 2018 from 6-8 p.m.
