Team “Doing It for Dave” received a platinum award for its fundraising efforts on behalf of Autism Speaks at an awards ceremony on February 11th. The Westborough High School youth team raised over $28,000 for autism research and services during 2011, placing it among the highest fundraising teams in the region. Team Captain Rebecca Ackerman accepted the award on behalf of the team. Rebecca was the top individual fundraiser for Greater Boston Autism Speaks this year.
Autism is complex disorder of brain development that is characterized by difficulties in social interaction and communication as well as repetitive behaviors. Autism Spectrum Disorders are the most common developmental disability, affecting 1 in every 110 children. The prevalence of the disorder has increased 600% over the past two decades.
Team Doing It For Dave started as a team of Mill Pond students in 2006. The team has walked annually for the past six years and raised $85,000 to support research to increase the understanding of autism and improve treatments. Team “Doing It for Dave” is focused on both fundraising and awareness events. The team welcomes new members of any age. For more information, contact doingitfordave@live.com.