Autism high heel hike not limited to stilettos

Don't let the name of the shoes keep you from walking in the High Heel Hike for Autism on Saturday.

Any kind of shoes will do. Participants will wear everything from high heels and tennis shoes to flip-flops. The point is to have fun while raising funds for a worthy cause. 

"Most people will wear high heels but I usually don't," said Valicia Leary, executive director for Children's Therapy Clinic. "My team will wear flip-flops. We're going with a Jimmy Buffett theme."

So far, 16 teams in a wide variety of attire will take part in the event to raise funds for the autism socialization program at Children's Therapy Clinic.

Registration begins 9 a.m. Saturday at Haddad Riverfront Park with the hike beginning at 10:30 a.m. Participants will walk from there and continues along Capitol Street to Taylor Books. Then they will return to Haddad Riverfront Park.

The jaunt is rather short but rich in fun attire for those who wish to watch the parade.

"My team will wear flowered shirts, leis and flip-flops," Leary said. "The Simply Irresistible Team will wear short black dresses and heels."

Team names hint of even more creative walkers. Among teams will be Divas 101, High Tops on the Hill, Social Workers in Stilettos and Team Totally Awesome. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes.

"It will be fun just for people to come and see the event," she said.

So far, the teams include about 140 people who have raised $15,660.

The event is part of a national nonprofit movement to raise money for autism awareness. It was launched in Tampa, Fla., in 2004 by Jules Burt, who will be in Charleston for the local event. Money raised in Charleston goes to the Children's Therapy Clinic. This marks the first time the walk has been held here.