NSCS RACE AT DOVER TO BENEFIT AUTISM SPEAKS

A Special Opportunity to Enjoy the FexEx 400 Benefiting Autism Speaks NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race at Dover International Speedway on June 3
 
Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, Dover International Speedway, NASCAR and FedEx have teamed up to create “Autism Speaks Day at the Races,” an unprecedented opportunity for children with autism and their families to enjoy a NASCAR race – the June 3 FedEx 400 Benefiting Autism Speaks – in-person in a sensory-friendly environment.
 
The day-long event marks the first-ever autism-friendly NASCAR race, and will give families a chance to experience a NASCAR race in an environment specifically designed for the enjoyment of children with autism. “Autism Speaks Day at the Races” will be held in Dover’s air-conditioned grandstand, providing a great view of the Monster Mile from the backstretch, and will feature brief presentations by educational speakers and special appearances by NASCAR personalities prior to the race.

A dedicated quiet zone will be located inside special rooms in the grandstand, where parents can bring their kids to get away from the crowd and noise at any point during the race. The quiet zone will have muted lighting in a calmer environment, while also featuring video screens to keep up with the action on the track. Volunteers from Autism Speaks will be on hand to assist families. Members of the Alpha Xi Delta sorority will serve as volunteers.

“Autism Speaks Day at the Races” is the latest chapter in the successful six-year partnership between Autism Speaks and the Monster Mile. Autism Speaks, Dover International Speedway, NASCAR and FedEx will work together to raise funds and awareness throughout race weekend.

“Dover, NASCAR and FedEx have been incredible partners and supporters, and we are extremely grateful for this exciting opportunity to not only raise awareness and critical funding, but to also involve families in an entirely new way,” said Mark Roithmayr, Autism Speaks president.

The day will begin with doors opening at 9:30 a.m., followed by brief presentations on “Living on the Spectrum” and “Autism Speaks in the Community,” as well as a briefing on the latest developments in autism research by a member of Autism Speaks’ science team and a presentation by Autism Delaware. In addition, appearances will be made by NASCAR team owner Joe Gibbs and driver Jamie McMurray, who stars in Autism Speaks’ “Learn the Signs” PSA campaign, produced in partnership with the Ad Council.

Tickets for “Autism Speaks Day at the Races” cost $88 for adults and $20 for children ages 14 and younger. The $88 price point is symbolic, as recent studies have shown that one in 88 children is diagnosed with autism by age eight, according to the CDC. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Autism Speaks.

To purchase tickets to “Autism Speaks Day at the Races,” call 800-441-RACE or visit www.MonsterMileOffers.com/AutismSpeaks.