Hundred of families and supporters in the West Plains, Mo. community gathered for the 4th annual West Plains Walk Now for Autism at the West Plains Civic Center on Saturday, September 27. The walkers, on 20 teams, raised $28,000. Special thanks to Walk sponsor C & K Clothing, which made a financial contribution and provided snacks and refreshments on Walk day.

Walkers enjoyed the event's “Cowboy Carnival” theme, which featured numerous entertainers, Western-themed games for children, stock cars, fire trucks and Stagecoach Rick, who brought an interactive stagecoach. Walkers also met Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Riding Hood, and other Disney characters. After the Walk, in the afternoon, the neighboring town of Mountain View its Pioneer Days event, where one of the West Plains Walk teams (‘West Plains Bank') had their own autism walk/parade as part of the larger event.

West Plains walkers sit atop the stage in preparation for a performance by the Missouri State University – West Plains cheerleaders.

Walk Chair, Shanna Head, gathers with other anxious walkers as she is about to cut the ribbon, signifying the Walk around the downtown square to be started.

Walkers scored big as they tried their arms at the cowboy beanbag toss, which matched the day's theme of "Cowboy Carnival."

Walk Chair, Shanna Head, and others celebrate as the official ribbon is cut signaling the start of the walk.

Walk Chair, Shanna Head, announcing the total donations to the crowd and thanking everyone for their support.

Shanna Head, Walk Chair, standing on stage thanking her fellow Walk Committee members, Pat King, Terri Jo Stephens, Emily Marshall, Heather Hoffman, and Holly Johanssen and Kristi Sheridan (off-stage).

The Walk Now for Autism Banner between the trees served as the first item walkers saw as they arrived at the West Plains Civic Center.