Team Laughing Dog races to help curb autism

SANDPOINT — Local efforts helps families affected by autism are about to get a significant financial boost.

After completing the grueling Race Across America endurance test for bicyclists, riders Kathi Riba Crane, Gina Pucci, Arlene Cook, Julie Nye and the Team Laughing Dog crew are preparing to hand out the fruits of their efforts. On Monday, they cut the first $10,000 check of a total $40,000 they’ll be donating to local nonprofit Team Autism 24/7.

“We’re going to be donating over a period of time, and this is how we’ve decided to start,” Team Laughing Dog crew member Judy Thompson said.

The donation coincides with a Thursday screening of the documentary “The Horse Boy” at the Panida Theater. An official selection of the 2009 Sundance Film Festival, "The Horse Boy" chronicles the horseback journey of a Texas couple and their autistic son through outer Mongolia in the hopes of healing their child’s condition. Throughout its 90-minute runtime, the documentary details the very personal dynamics of a single family, the shamanistic traditions of Mongolia and the struggles familiar to millions of families impacted by autism. Doors open at 6 p.m., the film begins at 7 p.m. and organizers suggest a donation of $7 for entry.

According to organizers, “The Horse Boy” is a great way to understand the everyday difficulties of living with autism. A neural development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, autism brings new challenges to the already-difficult task of raising a child.

That’s why Team Laughing Dog members selected Team Autism 24/7 as the their fundraising beneficiary. Just as the riders experienced a nonstop endurance test in the 3,000-mile race from California to Maryland, families with an autistic member also face a constant struggle.

“Both Race Across America and autism are 24/7 nonstop mental, physical and emotional challenges,” Team Autism 24/7 associate Wayne Pignolet wrote when the team formed up. “Race Across America is a 24/7 race — once the race starts it does not stop until the riders cross the finish line — and autism is 24/7 disorder.”

 Thanks to the huge amount of support for the riders, Team Autism 24/7 will be receiving $40,000 over the coming months. That donation was made possible by countless individuals and support from businesses like Laughing Dog Brewery, Trinity At City Beach, Sandpoint West Athletic Club, Greasy Fingers Bikes and Repair, Panhandle State Bank and more.

“We had a lot of community support, and Sandpoint is really known for that,” Thompson said.