Page 11 - 2022-2023 Annual Report

9
Giant Steps Annual Report 22 - 23 | info@mygiantsteps.org | www.mygiantsteps.org

Gator Crawl

This year, Giant Steps proudly introduced
our first-ever Gator Crawl events, held in the
days leading up to our Power Our Heroes
5K Walk for Autism. These inaugural on-
campus celebrations provided a meaningful
opportunity to honor and recognize our
students at the Day School and the adults in
our Canopy Program, reinforcing the strong
sense of community that defines Giant Steps.

Driven by the generosity of Gator Crawl
sponsorships, parents, grandparents, and
extended family members rallied to support
their loved ones, raising over $12,000 to
benefit the programs and resources that help
our students and Canopy participants thrive.
Each sponsorship served as a tribute to our
Gators’ incredible strength and perseverance.

During the Gator Crawl, Day School students ensuring comfort and fun throughout the event.
proudly walked around the Lisle campus, A similar format occurred at Canopy’s Sugar
cheered by teachers, therapists, support staff, Grove location, where adult participants were
and administrators. Before beginning their walk, met with equal enthusiasm and encouragement.
each class gathered under the Gator Crawl
start/finish arch for a commemorative group More than just a walk, the Gator Crawl was a
photo. Every participant received a special celebration of achievement, inclusion, and
celebration cinch backpack containing a water support. It highlighted the essential role of our
bottle, a snack, and a new sensory fidget, students and adults within the Giant Steps autism

community, reaffirming our commitment to
providing them with the tools and resources they
need to grow, learn, and succeed.