Walk Committee Member Jill Wood meets a Stormtrooper.

On a chilly October morning, 4,500 people rallied together for the third annual Southeast Michigan Walk Now for Autism Speaks at The Palace in Auburn Hills, Mich., raising over $224,000.

Detroit Pistons guard, Will Bynum, welcomed the walkers and took photographs with families. A resource fair of nearly 50 vendors offered educational resources, therapists, schools, recreational organizations and creative child-friendly activities – each booth offered a small prize to children who stopped by. Additionally, children could have a sheet stamped by vendors for a chance to win a larger prize. Walkers enjoyed music and ShockFest, an activity center provided by The Palace.

Special thanks to Walk Chairs Susan Woolner and Rich Ansell for making the Southeast Michigan Walk such a success. Read more about the Walk here and become a fan of the SE Michigan Walk Now for Autism Speaks on Facebook.