Princeton Cyclist Completes 1,800 Mile Solo Ride for Eden Autism Services

Princeton, NJ, June 08, 2012 --(PR.com)-- On April 23rd, Princeton, New Jersey resident John LaBosco began his 1,800 mile solo bike journey up the East coast to raise money and awareness for Eden Autism Services, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with autism and their families. Starting at Eden’s school in Ft. Myers, FL, LaBosco completed his ride and arrived at Eden’s school in the Princeton Forrestal Village, Princeton, NJ in just 5 weeks, one week ahead of schedule. With locations in Southwest Florida and Princeton, New Jersey, Eden Autism Services' mission is to improve the lives of children and adults with autism and support their families by providing a range of community based services to meet specific needs throughout the lifespan.

LaBosco, a former Eden employee who worked in Eden’s adult residential program, is an avid cyclist and outdoorsman. His Ride for Eden raised nearly $10,000 through donations and sponsorships. “I want to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my journey,” said LaBosco. “It was quite an experience for me personally, but more importantly, I am delighted to have had the opportunity to share Eden’s mission and increase autism awareness, as well as raise some money. I have seen first-hand the impact Eden has on our children and adults with autism and their families. Economic times are tough and for Eden to continue to provide critical services for individuals with autism, additional funding is needed.”

Statistics state that 1 in 88 American children are affected by autism. The annual cost of autism in the United States is $126 billion annually, more than tripling the cost analysis from six years ago.

Melinda McAleer, Chief Development Officer of Eden Autism Services, thanked LaBosco for his tremendous efforts in helping to raise much needed funds and awareness for Eden’s mission. “With the incidence of autism continuing to rise at alarming rates, services for individuals with autism are needed now more than ever. Unique approaches to fundraising are so meaningful, especially when they emanate from within the Eden family or staff. It helps elevate awareness and we are deeply grateful to the community, staff and families who engage in such endeavors.”

Donations for John’s Ride for Eden are still being accepted. Visit www.rideforeden.org to make a contribution.

All donations are tax-deductible. To learn more about Eden visit www.edenautism.org or call (609) 987-0099.

About Eden Autism Services
Founded in 1975, Eden Autism Services provides early intervention, education, employment training and residential services for children and adults with autism. Eden offers both in-person and online support and training programs for families and professionals. Recognized nationally, Eden is headquartered in Princeton, NJ. For more information about Eden visit www.edenautism.org or call (609) 987-0099.

About Autism Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by behavioral challenges. Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in one in 88 children in the United States, and one in 54 boys. The prevalence of autism has increased 600 percent in the past two decades. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown.