Yuma Autism Walk  2025

Scaling Safely: Behind the Scenes of a Bigger, Better Walk

The Strong Beginnings Project

Doubling attendance at the Autism Walk meant more than just incresed attendance, it meant more moving parts, more risk, and a much greater need for strategic coordination. My role was to make sure all 1,000+ attendees were not only welcomed, but safely accomodated.

The Challenge

The surge in visibility and attendance brought the welcome challenge of managing a large-scale event safely and efficiently.

The walk had never before needed emergency protocols, overflow parking, or formal site logistics. Now, we needed it all done in a short timeframe. The registration window was only open for 5 days 1 month prior to the event when the surge occurred, which left me with 4 weeks to accomodate the increased attendance.

What I Did

• I coordinated directly with the Deputy Chief and Battalion Chief at Yuma Fire Department to secure an engine company and UTV medic team for on-site standby EMS coverage.

• I created and distributed a full emergency response plan to police, fire, volunteers, and staff.

• I led the event Command Center and handled all day-of logistics and radio communications across departments.

• Noticed a major gap in parking and worked with the City to secure overflow parking lots nearby.

How It Impacted

A growing event is exciting and rewarding, but only if it’s sustainable. By stepping in to manage logistics, communication, and risk proactively, I helped Strong Beginnings scale confidently. Behind every joyful community moment was a well-planned safety net designed through an intuitive, thoughtful approach that balances the big picture with every small detail.