Hundreds of walkers in Yorktown Heights, wanting to help better the world for children with autism and their families, recently participated in the sixth annual walkathon for BluePath Service Dogs. The family-friendly fundraiser raised more than $185,000 to further the organization”™s goal to provide autism service dogs for safety, companionship and opportunities for independence.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, one out of every 44 children born today will develop an autism spectrum disorder. It is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the U.S.
Each BluePath dog comes with thousands of hours of training from dedicated volunteers and professional staff. While the cost to prepare these incredible dogs is more than $40,000, BluePath provides its service dogs and intensive, ongoing follow-up support completely free of charge.
“BluePath dogs provide safety and freedom, opening the door to new possibilities for the whole family to thrive,” said the nonprofit”™s President and CEO Jody Sandler. “This year”™s walkathon was an incredible celebration of our growing community and our most successful fundraising event to date”¦.”
Founded in 2016 to provide autism service dogs, BluePath receives no government funding and relies on the generosity of donors and volunteers to fulfill its mission.
BluePath Service Dogs Inc. is located at 8 Country Club Road in Hopewell Junction. For more, call 845-377-0477 or visit bluepathservicedogs.org.
