The stakes are very high this year at New Horizons 4th Annual Walk on the Horizon.
WHAT: Faced with California Governor Jerry Browns budget, which will hurt all organizations in the state that help the developmentally disabled community, New Horizons is urging its supporters to get involved and participate in the 4th Annual Walk on the Horizon.
Undeterred by the 2011-12 state budget, which slashes $ 750 million from the Department of Developmental Services, hundreds of emboldened walkers are expected to join Grand Marshall Rafer Johnson and Honorary Walk Chairman and actor Michael Welch from Joan of Arcadia and the Twilight Series at this fundraising event. Entertainment will be provided by the musical group, Arrest My Sister, which plays a bold, eclectic mix of music styles. The lead singer of the band is autistic.
WHY: The state budget cut will most likely result in a reduction of services and programs to thousands of adults with developmental disabilities who are learning independent living and job skills. It is estimated that New Horizons could incur up to a 10% reduction in the funding it receives from the state and this would potentially result in fewer services and programs unless other sources of funding are found.. New Horizons receives over 70% of its $ 12.5 million annual budget from the state. The overall funding New Horizons receives is already less today than it was in 1996. Hence, New Horizons is counting on their Walk on the Horizon to provide needed support in these trying times.
WHEN:
