Record Attendance at 2026 Autism Walk
Each spring the Newaygo County Autism Community hosts a walk for autism awareness and acceptance at the Fremont football field. A combination of sunny weather, fun activities, award presentations, vendors and community support made for a highly successful event with a record 400 participants.
The theme of the walk was “Teams” and participants were encouraged to form support teams made up of family, friends, educators and community members. NCRESA fielded the largest team and received the first annual team trophy.
The Ken Schipper Acceptance Award is given to an individual who exemplifies the promotion of autism acceptance, awareness and support in our community by empowering students and creating an inclusive educational environment where every child can thrive. Paula Rodriguez, a special education teacher at Grant Elementary School was presented with the award in the presence of Ken’s family.
After walking, families were treated to the following activities by community supporters and organizations:
Face painting, courtesy of the Empowerment Network
Bounce houses, sponsored by realtor Michael Hummel and Neibor Electric
Bubbles provided by Adam and Lola Dyga
Sound system and music from Brian and Trixie Strong of Strong Productions
First Responders from the Fremont Fire Department, Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office and Life EMS
Other volunteers include:
Fremont Area Foundation Youth Advisory Council members who assisted with the bounce houses
Russ Tindall, photographer
Vreplay Videographer Jason Baker
Meijer provided snacks, Gilroy’s Hardware donated a gift certificate for the raffle and Fremont Public Schools allowed NCAC to use their facilities.
Newaygo County Autism Community is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization and all funds raised are used in Newaygo County. It’s a group of parents, school professionals, mental health service providers and community members who work to support and advocate for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. Some of the services the organization provides are sensory friendly movies, Swim Academy (Swimming lessons and water safety instruction), swim time at Tamarac, quiet zones at parades, advocacy and IEP support and grant opportunities. Contact NCAC on Facebook or at our website newaygocountyautismcommunity.org for more information.
2026 WALK FOR AUTISM PHOTOS
Russell Tindall provided videos and photos of the event, please enjoy them below!
SAFE SWIM ACADEMY
Here are some fun photos and a great testimonial video from the Safe Swim Academy that is happening this summer! The program provides swimming and water safety instruction for Newaygo County residents living with autism. We would like to thank the Fremont Area Community Foundation and the Fremont Community Rec Authority for their support with this amazing program. Next event is Saturday April 4th, from 2-4PM located at the Fremont Rec Center pool! See our events page for more information on this event.
NCAC Grant Application
The Newaygo County Autism Community recognizes that living with autism comes with many challenges for families and individuals. We are offering grants to Newaygo County residents or those who have been supported by any Newaygo County school for items that families or individuals living with autism might need in order to make their lives more manageable and productive. In an effort to accommodate as many requests as possible, grants will be limited to $500. This round will be granted on February 13, 2026. DEADLINE TO APPLY IS JANUARY 30, 2026.
Applications can be submitted in 1 of 3 ways: Mailing it to NCAC, P.O. Box 56, Fremont, MI 49412, online through the link on our website, or through Messenger on our Facebook page. Applications must be received by January 30, 2026.
Who We Are
We are parents, school professionals, and community members who actively seek to support and advocate for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.
We strive to increase Awareness, Support, & Acceptance throughout Newaygo County for persons with ASD and their families.
We do this by providing support groups, social & community activities, information & resources, and raising public Autism awareness throughout the year.
We are a 501(c)3- Non-Profit organization.
All funds raised for Newaygo County Autism Community will be used in Newaygo County.
Upcoming Events
Join us throughout the year for fun activities, informational meetings, and our annual Walk for Autism event! See our calendar to keep up to date with all that is happening within the Newaygo County Autism Community.