WELLS – A group consisting largely of special educators and others from Wells Junior High School came together on April 29^th to participate in an annual statewide walk to raise awareness and funding for autism.

Originating from the University of New England in Biddeford, the newly formed WJHS Bridges Team walked two miles in rainy weather raising $720.

Heather McAtavey, a recreational therapist at WJHS, organized and assembled the team of 27.

“I am very grateful for such an incredible turnout for our first year participating as a team in the 16^th Annual Autism Society Maine Walk for Autism,” McAtavey said.

She indicated that 99 teams originating from six locations from Biddeford to Bangor participated in the walk this year.

“I would like to thank each and every one of the walkers for their participation and all of the individual donations made by coworkers, friends, family and members of the community,” said McAtavey.  “I look forward to the upcoming years, as the Bridges Team continues to take part in the annual walk.”

She described the beginning interest in forming a team at WJHS as “phenomenal.”

According to the Autism Society of Maine, proceeds from the event will help fund programs that support families here in Maine.

Autism occurs in about one out of every 68 births.

According to the society’s website, preliminary results indicate that $55,744 was raised in the latest Autism Walk.