Record breaking attendance for Hope Network’s twelfth Blue Bridge Walk for Autism

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — Hope Network hosted its twelfth annual Blue Bridge Walk for Autism on Thursday.

Back in 2025, around two thousand people attended.

This year, that record was smashed as around 2,500 people came out to raise awareness. 

Hundreds of families filed over the bridge and then packed into the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Inside, they were treated to an evening full of sensory-friendly activities, something that mother Jessenia Bowen appreciated.

“I know my son,” Bowen said. “He loves sensory things, so it was a big benefit for him, and I know a lot of other kids, to be able to see all of that stuff today.”

As Hope Network’s event has grown over the years, so has understanding of the diagnosis. 

Bob Von Kaenel, the President and CEO of Hope Network, said: “One in 31 kids are being diagnosed with autism today, so without question, it’s becoming much more prevalent.”

The families who came out were grateful to know they aren’t alone. 

“When you have a child or grandchild that has autism, I think it shows a lot,” said Lisa Mitchell, a grandmother herself. 

Others appreciated the opportunity to connect. 

“I think it’s so important for the community, more than anything,” said mother Jessie Exoo. “I got a chance to talk to some other parents, and it was really about just having a place where you can be accepted and you can find people like you.”

“I mean, we’re all in the same boat together,” Bowen said. “We know what we’re all going through dealing with, and we’re just supporting each other right now. So it was really great.”