Autism Speaks & WIHS, together we can do more.

The Washington International Horse Show is proud to partner with the National Capital Area Chapter of Autism Speaks, an organization working to change the future for all who struggle with autism spectrum disorders.

This year WIHS and Autism Speaks will host two special events during the show week to raise awareness and funds for Autism Speaks.

Urban Cowboy Party
Following up on last year's success in raising $200,000 for Autism Speaks, guests once again will have a chance to let loose at the second annual Urban Cowboy Party. The lively evening offers a gourmet southwestern menu, open bar, silent auction and for the bold, a mechanical bull. So dust off your boots and mark your calendar for Wednesday, Oct. 22. For more details and tickets, contact Emma Petievich at 323-297-4757, epetievich@autismspeaks.org or visit http://events.autismspeaks.org/wihs . The event will take place in Verizon Center's Acela Club overlooking the competition arena. See photos from last year.

Day of Champions Celebration of Special Needs Riders
On Sunday Oct. 26, an afternoon of free activities will begin at 2:00 P.M. following the show's closing ceremonies. This unique program will feature special needs riders of all ability levels, family events, music and entertainment. It's an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the festivities and excitement that the WIHS has to offer while celebrating the accomplishments of special needs riders and the mission of Autism Speaks. All the events will be held at Verizon Center. For sponsorship information contact Shelly Galli at 202-309-1303. 

About Autism and Autism Speaks (www.autismspeaks.org):
Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by extreme behavioral challenges. Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in one in 150 children in the U.S., affecting four times as many boys as girls.

The diagnosis of autism has increased tenfold in the last decade. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown. Autism Speaks is dedicated to increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders, to funding research into the causes, prevention and treatments for autism, and to advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.

Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, who are the honorary chairs for this year's show. The Wrights are the grandparents of a child with autism. Bob Wright is Vice Chairman, General Electric, and served as chief executive officer of NBC for more than 20 years. For more information, please visit: www.autismspeaks.org