More than 1,200 residents recently stepped up for a good cause at one of Little Friends biggest fundraisers.
At the fourth annual Step Up For Autism, walkers and runners of all ages lined two-and-a-half miles of Naperville’s Riverwalk to raise awareness.
Little Friends is a not-for-profit organization and support group for children and adults with Autism and other developmental disabilities. Autism affects more than 1.5 million Americans.
The event earned about $80,000 to benefit Naperville families affected by Autism.
Resident Juanita Tarantino was recognized as the top fundraiser. She collected nearly $7,000 and walked with her family in support of her Autistic nephew.
“So many people have come up to me and said I am so blessed to have two healthy children, I want to give,” said Tarantino.
Little Friend’s next big fundraiser is the Golf Classic in September.