On Saturday, April 28, Alpha Xi Deltas braved the rain and gathered at Garfield Park in Indianapolis, Indiana, to raise funds and awareness for autism spectrum disorders. Our Beta Pi Chapter from Indiana University and our Alpha Eta Chapter from Purdue University traveled to Indianapolis to take part in the first ever Indianapolis Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

Sisters helped blow up balloons, register walkers, paint faces and much more. There was music playing and tons of activities for children. The new and improved BetXi Bear made her debut at the Walk and had a great time showing off her new look.

Despite all the fun activities, the walk had to be postponed when thunder and lightning appeared across the sky. To ensure everyone’s safety, the walk was cancelled and participants were sent home. Autism Speaks will be notifying registered walkers of a place and time for everyone to come together to walk for those affected by autism spectrum disorders.

Even though the weather was not on our side this weekend, family and friends of those touched by autism and Alpha Xi Delta Sisters from the Indianapolis area showed up to support Autism Speaks and contribute to the fundraising efforts. At the end of the day, the walk raised more than $100,000 for Autism Speaks.

We could not be more proud of our Sisters who donated their time and contributed to the success of the walk. Thank you for helping us raise awareness for autism spectrum disorders and fundraise for a cure. We will continue to keep Sisters updated on the new date for Indianapolis to come together and walk for Autism Speaks.