The Fire and Iron Firefighters Motorcycle Club from Devils Lake has made a significant contribution to the Altru Autism Diagnostic Clinic, donating $11,008.70 on March 4, 2024. This marks the club’s fourth donation to the clinic and represents the largest amount raised during their annual autism run. The donation was presented at the Altru Performance Center in Grand Forks, highlighting the club’s commitment to supporting autism diagnosis and treatment in the region.
The initiative began when a member of the motorcycle club sought assistance for his son’s autism diagnosis. Learning that the clinic operates solely on donations, the club set a goal to provide financial support. “There is a need for it, and if we can help out in any way, we will,” said Josh Bierman, treasurer of the Fire and Iron Firefighters Motorcycle Club. The annual ride has become a tradition for the club, with members striving to increase their contributions each year.
Support for Families and Community Impact
Since its establishment in 2013, the Altru Autism Diagnostic Clinic has played a critical role in assisting families with the diagnostic process. Traditionally, families had to visit multiple facilities for various tests, leading to added stress and financial burden. The clinic has streamlined this process, providing a primary location for families to receive care.
“It has helped relieve some of the huge financial burden on families while also helping with the stigma around autism,” stated Paige Thompson, a representative from Altru. The funds donated directly benefit patients and their families, ensuring they are not faced with unexpected medical bills. As awareness of autism has grown, the demand for diagnostic services has increased, making these donations even more vital.
Thompson emphasized the positive changes observed since the clinic’s inception, noting, “Since I have started, we have seen a lot of growth in many ways with how the diagnostic clinic is handled and just how comfortable people are with not having to go all the way to Sioux Falls.”
Collaboration Among Local Clubs
The impact of community support is further highlighted by the involvement of other local motorcycle clubs. The East Grand Forks Iron Pigs have also contributed significantly to the clinic, showcasing a spirit of collaboration among local organizations. Thompson remarked, “Two motorcycle clubs in the same area making donations to us. Who would have thought?”
As the stigma surrounding autism continues to diminish, the importance of such donations cannot be overstated. The Fire and Iron Firefighters Motorcycle Club’s ongoing support exemplifies a community-driven effort to ensure that families have access to essential diagnostic services without financial strain. Their contributions not only provide immediate assistance but also foster a more inclusive environment for those affected by autism.
