Bikers Ride for Autism Awareness: Raising Funds and Fostering Understanding

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, a group of motorcycle enthusiasts from the Fire and Iron MC club embarked on a 90-mile journey from Grand Forks to Devils Lake, North Dakota, with a mission to raise awareness and funds for autism. This initiative, spearheaded by club member Joe Getty, whose own son Greyson was diagnosed with autism, has become a driving force in supporting local autism services and bringing the community together.

Revving Up for a Cause: Bikers Unite to Support Autism Awareness

Riding for a Purpose: The Fire and Iron MC's Autism Awareness Drives

The Fire and Iron Motorcycle Club, an international organization, has taken a proactive approach to supporting the autism community. Joe Getty, a member of the club, came up with the idea to organize biannual motorcycle drives to raise awareness and funds for autism-related services. "I kind of came up with the idea. I presented it to my club, and they were like, 'Heck yeah, man, let's run with it,'" Getty recounted, highlighting the enthusiastic support from his fellow club members.These drives have become a platform for the club to engage with the local community and make a tangible difference. The funds raised during these events are donated to Altru, an autism diagnostic clinic that has played a crucial role in supporting Getty's own family. "They put us in contact with a lot of different resources, helped us get in touch with multiple people to better assist our son," Getty explained, underscoring the invaluable support Altru has provided.

Altru: A Comprehensive Approach to Autism Diagnosis and Care

Altru, the recipient of the funds raised by the Fire and Iron MC, is a unique autism diagnostic clinic that takes a multidisciplinary approach to supporting individuals with autism and their families. According to Alex Rumple, a speech-language pathologist at Altru, the clinic's approach sets it apart."They get to see a group of therapists from speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy who do screenings and make recommendations for their child if they need additional services," Rumple explained, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the services offered. This holistic approach ensures that individuals with autism receive a tailored plan of care, addressing their unique needs and providing them with the resources they require.

The Financial Burden of Autism Diagnosis: Alleviating the Strain

The cost of obtaining an autism diagnosis can be a significant financial burden for families. Joe Getty, the driving force behind the Fire and Iron MC's autism awareness drives, recognized this challenge and made it a priority to alleviate the strain."It could be upwards of a few thousand dollars just for a diagnosis. So, we just try to alleviate that by donating money and raising money," Getty said, emphasizing the club's commitment to supporting families in need. By raising funds and donating them to Altru, the Fire and Iron MC aims to ensure that individuals with autism and their families have access to the necessary diagnostic services and resources, regardless of their financial situation.

A Growing Community of Support: Bikers from Near and Far Join the Cause

The Fire and Iron MC's autism awareness drives have garnered support from a diverse group of individuals, showcasing the power of community engagement. Jake Johnson, the Vice President of the motorcycle club, noted the increasing participation from people outside of the immediate area."We got people showing up from Belle Fourche, South Dakota, just to support the cause. So, it's getting bigger," Johnson said, highlighting the growing interest and involvement in the initiative. This influx of support from across state lines demonstrates the widespread appeal of the club's efforts and the desire of people to contribute to a meaningful cause.

Autism Awareness: A Call for Empathy and Understanding

As the Fire and Iron MC continues to raise awareness and funds for autism, Joe Getty emphasizes the importance of fostering empathy and understanding within the community. "I would just like people to be more aware, more informed. They're still people; be kind; it doesn't hurt to be kind to people," Getty said, underscoring the need for compassion and acceptance towards individuals with autism.Getty's personal experience with his son's diagnosis has fueled his passion for this cause, and he hopes to see the participation in the club's drives grow in the coming years. "I've noticed an increase in the autism population," Getty shared, further emphasizing the need for continued support and advocacy.The Fire and Iron MC's autism awareness drives have become a testament to the power of community, empathy, and the transformative impact that a group of passionate individuals can have. By raising funds, fostering understanding, and providing support to families affected by autism, the club is making a lasting difference in the lives of those they serve.