AEIOU News

AEIOU Blue Crew lace up for Bridge to Brisbane

Fri, 17 Aug 12

MEDIA RELEASE

August 2012 

AEIOU Blue Crew lace up for Bridge to Brisbane

Hundreds of Brisbane locals will put their best foot forward for children with autism on Sunday September 2, 2012 when they join AEIOU Foundation’s Blue Crew to raise $30,000 in the annual Bridge to Brisbane Fun Run.

AEIOU Foundation CEO Alan Smith said the Blue Crew is one of the most inspiring groups to take part in The Sunday Mail’s Bridge to Brisbane every year. “More than 255 people joined the Blue Crew last year, and helped us raise over $30,000 and we’re aiming to better that target in 2012.”

Since 2009, AEIOU Foundation has attracted one of the city’s largest support crews for the event. “Across 2009, 2010 and 2011, AEIOU welcomed more than 440 members to the Blue Crew who together raised nearly $100,000 for children with autism in our centres across Queensland,” Mr Smith said.

Further to that, in 2010, AEIOU won top honours, with the CEO Alan Smith awarded the award for the highest individual fundraiser, and the Blue Crew finishing second on the top 10 team fundraising ladder.

“This is a terrific day out for the community where everyone can make a difference. The families and friends of children in our centres come out in force, but many corporate organisations and individuals across the city choose to sign up and wear blue for AEIOU, which is incredible to see,” Mr Smith said.

Autism is not rare, affecting more than 1 in 160 people in Australia. It is a life-long disorder characterised by difficulties in communication, social interaction and relationships and repetitive behaviours and routines. While there is no cure for autism, early intervention can make a big difference.

AEIOU Foundation is one of Australia’s leading providers of best practice early intervention for children with autism who are aged between two and a half and five years.  AEIOU supports over 200 children each year in 10 locations across Queensland in its reputable program which aims to ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their maximum potential.

To get active and support children with autism, register for the AEIOU Blue Crew at www.bridgetobrisbane.com.au/enter-online, select the Competitor Registration option, then choose ‘Join an Existing Team’.

As part of the Blue Crew, you’ll receive an AEIOU Blue Crew T-shirt, AEIOU cap and wristband. AEIOU will provide breakfast on the day. The highest fundraiser for the Blue Crew will also receive a special prize.

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Media enquiries:

Laura Daley, Fundraising Marketing Manager, p: 3320 7555, e: Laura.Daley@aeiou.org.au.

Deborah Whiteoak , Corporate Affairs Manager, p: 33207910, e: Deborah.whiteoak@aeiou.org.au