The Kelly Autism Program (KAP) is excited about the huge anti-bullying campaign started by Dylan Beckham, an energetic eleven-year old from Plano Elementary School. His mission is twofold: decreasing bullying while increasing autism awareness. Dylan saw his friend, a KAP participant, being teased at school one day and immediately got involved. This incident spurred him to become a “voice” that is dedicated to individuals who have faced any type of ridicule. Dylan’s goal is to raise $30,000 for KAP and create awareness about how painful these experiences can be for all children.
In pursuing his goal, Dylan became the chair person for the annual Life Skills/Kiwanis Run for Autism on October 16th, 2010. As a leader of such a large campaign, Dylan has met with Brian Packard and Mark Elliot, co-chairs for the event. Dylan’s efforts have ignited a reverberating effect within the schools and community. Plano Elementary and Rich Pond Elementary Leadership teams hosted a baseball game with proceeds going to KAP. Those who attended the game all agreed it was powerful to see hundreds of students wearing the KAP t-shirts and showing such support for their classmates diagnosed with autism. The Creek family helped Dylan sponsor a golf scramble. Scrap bookers got involved, and are now planning a monthly event with proceeds going to Dylan’s efforts. Several other organizations and families have joined Dylan in his mission giving of their time and resources.
KAP staff has worked with Dylan, Joanie Hendricks Warren County Public Relations Coordinator, and Bowling Green Independent schools on the production of a public service announcement titled “Stop the Hurting, Start the Healing”. This PSA is airing daily at all Warren and Bowling Green Schools, and is being presented to the Kentucky Department of Education. Also, the Kelly Cup (a three foot traveling trophy) will be awarded to the school which has the highest percentage of participants yearly in the Autism Walk. KAP is so proud of this young man and his family as he strives to impact the community and promote autism awareness!
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