Hayden's Walk for Autism to Raise Funds, Awareness

Milton's own Hayden Moore will be participating in a fundraiser and awareness event that bears his name, Hayden's Walk for Autism, on Saturday, Sept. 17.

The Milton Disability Awareness Committee and Milton Grows Green are coordinating the event with Hayden and his parents, which will take place Saturday, at 8 a.m. at Kohl's on Ga. 9 in Milton.

The walk is named for Hayden, a sophomore at Alpharetta High School. Moore, known as "Pudnum," his preferred nickname, was diagnosed with Autism at age 2. He has since become an advocate for autism awareness, a journey that has taken him to the state capitol, television stations, and much more.

He's visited Gov. Nathan Deal and met with former President Jimmy Carter at his presidential library to promote autism awareness.

"This is precisely the type of event that allows people to make connections with each other in Milton, regardless of their ability level," said Neal O'Brien, chairman of Milton Disability Awareness Committee. "Autism and spectrum disorders are very impactful to families and present tremendous challenges to everyone involved–so any chance we have to raise awareness, be involved and show support we are going to take."

Volunteers and participants from this committee will join friends from another city-sponsored committee at the walk, Milton Grows Green.

"Whether it is an Earth Day event, the Milton Roundup or a walk to benefit Autism awareness and fund raising, I am proud to support community events such as these," said Cindy Eade, Sustainability coordinator for the city and Milton Grows Green representative. "It is involvement with the community and support of our residents' passions and interests that make this a wonderful city in which to live, work and or play."

"Hayden is an amazing person, and he has changed our lives and the life of anyone who knows him," said Andre Moore, Hayden's father and organizer of the race. "He has such a unique loving and caring spirit."

The walk is free; however, cash donations will be accepted for Autism Speaks, a national advocacy group. Tax deductible donations can also be made to Hayden's Walk for Autism.

Hayden's Walk for Autism is sponsored by Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Springhill Suites Milton, Kicks 101.5 FM, Milton Grows Green, Walmart, CNN, Killer Creek Harley Davidson, Publix, CVS, Home Depot, Kohl's, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, Woltin Family Chiropractic, Alpharetta Raiders Football, Children's Therapy Works, The Bridge Inn, 94.5 Lake FM, Hopewell Middle School, the Milton Disability Awareness Committee, Champion Physical Therapy, Autism Speaks, Bethany Bend Urgent Care, Target, Lotus Vision and 11 Alive.