FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 27, 2015

THE 2^nd ANNUAL 'A GAMES' IS SUNDAY MAY 17th, 2015
COME WATCH 200+ KIDS WITH AUTISM COMPETE IN X GAME LIKE EVENTS

LAS VEGAS- Families for Effective Autism Treatment of Southern Nevada (FEAT) & Sport Social is currently preparing for the 2^nd annual A Games. This event is designed to raise money for the autism community in Las Vegas. The "A Games" event is to be held on May 17th, 2015, at Sport­ Social in Las Vegas. National celebrity, Las Vegas native and host of MTV’s "The Challenge", TJ Lavin, returns as the "A Games" Spokesperson, and a current gold metal title holder.

The inaugural 2014's A Games was a huge accomplishment. Over 100 children participated in a day filled with fun, laughter and lots of emotion. "Watching these children perform to the roars of the crowd would make even the strongest person come to tears", shared Jennifer Strobel, the Executive Director for FEAT here in southern Nevada.

The "A Games" is similar to the well-known "X Games," but for children on the autism spectrum. Participants have the opportunity to participate in two of eight events (Bike Race, Skateboard Race, Scooter Race, Bike Trick Competition, Skateboard Trick Competition, Rock Wall, Scooter Trick Competition and the Parkour Obstacle Course). 100+ volunteers and coaches closely monitor each event to ensure the safety and success of each participant. And most importantly, ensure they are having fun!

Practices for the kids are happening now at Sport Social. Each practice session has more than 30 kids working on their skills in anticipation of the big May event. "Even the practices are filled with moments of great achievements for these kids. Seeing them climb the rock wall for the first time or make their way down the half pipe successfully gives everyone goose bumps", Strobel added. The next practice is scheduled for May 9.

Opening Ceremonies on the day-of the event will start with the kids marching into the arena in the morning. The day is jam packed with fun activities and events including a DJ, Bounce Houses, Face Painters, Food Trucks, Kids Cool Zone and much more! All kids will receive shirts and medals for participating and the winners of each event will receive the coveted gold, silver and bronze medals during the awards ceremony. But the ultimate goal being to have fun, encourage our peers and spend a day packed full of unforgettable memories together!

The A Games will be held at 7055 Windy Street Suite B. Las Vegas NV 89119, time to be announced. All monies raised will stay in Southern Nevada - expanding FEAT's outreach and supporting programs for families and professionals affected by autism. FEAT looks to continue in their successful endeavors providing information on autism treatment resources, support, encouragement and guidance for families affected by autism.

ABOUT FEAT:

Families for Effective Autism Treatment, Inc. (FEAT) is a non-profit organization of parents and professionals, designed to help families with children who have received the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), or Asperger's Syndrome. FEAT offers a support network where families can meet each other and discuss issues surrounding autism and treatment options. FEAT has a Board of Directors that meets monthly to discuss issues, establish priorities, and vote on the direction of the organization.

FEAT publishes e-bulletins on current events in the Southern Nevada area, as well as changes in national policies and medical breakthroughs that affect our children. FEAT conducts tutor trainings in order to provide families with home programs a source of dedicated tutors for their children. FEAT also conducts yearly family outings such as the Annual FEAT Family Picnic & Resource Fair, Holiday Party and other events where families of children with autism can gather, network, and enjoy the day.

In the beginning, FEAT ignited change. Children were not properly diagnosed prior to the age of 6, they received minimal services not geared to the needs of children with autism and intensive intervention was not an option in Southern Nevada. Today FEAT's principals of helping all children in Southern Nevada are still very much alive. Early diagnosis and appropriate services are now possible. Support and empowerment exist.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jennifer Strobel, Executive Director
702.368.FEAT (3328) - Jennifer@featsonv.org - www.featsonv.org