WALKING ACROSS AMERICA FOR AUTISM: TWO MEN BEGIN JOURNEY FROM CALIFORNIA TO DC THIS TUESDAY
KICKOFF PARTY THIS SUNDAY IN SAN FRANCISCO

WORCESTER, MA – On Tuesday, two men from Massachusetts will begin The Elias Tembenis Walk for Autism, a year-long journey across America to raise autism awareness and funds to assist children with the diagnosis.

Leaving their families, home, and work behind, Robert Williams and Bobby Genese of Worcester will walk approximately 3000 miles in honor of Elias Tembenis, a seven-year-old boy with autism who passed away last November following a seizure. Harry and Gina Tembenis, also of Worcester, hope the walk will honor their son’s memory while helping children and families affected by autism.

A kickoff ceremony will be held this Sunday at Jillian’s in San Francisco. Williams and Genese will take a day to rest before their twelve-month journey begins on Tuesday. The walk will take place primarily on Route 50 and the American Discovery Trail, starting in San Francisco and ending in Washington DC.

Proceeds will benefit the National Autism Association’s Helping Hand Program, a national fund assisting families unable to afford autism therapy and medical services, and will also support autism initiatives in Elias’s hometown. “We can’t thank the guys enough for what they’re doing,” commented Rita Shreffler of the National Autism Association. “With the rise in autism, our community is starving for aid. Robert and Bobby are two very amazing people.”

The public is welcome to meet Williams and Genese and wish them well during the kickoff ceremony from 12 to 4 PM PST. Jillian’s is located at 101 4th Street, San Francisco, in the South end of the Metreon Building.

To learn more about Elias and how to support The Elias Tembenis walk, visit www.nationalautism.org/eliaswalk.

 
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