24-04-2025
Record turnout expected at Blue Bridge Walk for Autism
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — More than 1,700 people are expected to gather at Grand Rapids' Blue Bridge on Thursday for one of West Michigan's largest community gatherings during Autism Awareness Month.
The Bridge Walk for Autism, hosted by Hope Network, is nearly a decade in the making, and organizers say it's about feeling accepted, celebrated and honored.
It's also about raising awareness for an increasing number of autism diagnoses.
Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced an increase in the rate of autism diagnoses. About 1 in 31 children have autism, the CDC said; the previous estimate was 1 in 36. About a decade ago, autism was being diagnosed at a rate of 1 for every 54 children.
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That's why leaders with Hope Network say the bridge walk has never been more important.
'It's so important that we create moments so our entire community can see that a diagnosis is also a space for celebration,' said Jaime Counterman, chief advancement officer for Hope Network.
Hope Network says it's thrilled to celebrate and support families by walking alongside them.
'The better we're able to come together as a community to support one person or many to live a life where they feel like they belong, just like anybody else. That's really all anybody wants,' Counterman said. 'To not just be aware of, but to be accepted, to be celebrated, to be honored.'
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Hope Network offers everything from mental and behavioral health services to physical and social services. Event organizers say they're eager to highlight the growing need for autism services, celebrate inclusivity and emphasize the importance of community support.
'All of the work we do centers around meeting somebody where they are,' Counterman said. 'Showing them that they deserve to live in this world, just as they currently exist.'
Check-in starts at 4 p.m., and the bridge walk begins on the west side of the Blue Bridge at 5 p.m. Groups will walk toward the city and then circle the bridge, congregating back at the west side of the river.
The walk is followed by a fun-filled night at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. They've dimmed the lighting, reduced noise and altered some of the exhibits to create a sensory-friendly evening for everyone to enjoy.
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