Team of the Week
Team Paulie’s Promise
‘We Can’t Go Without Speaking Up’
Freshly fallen autumn leaves crunching softly underfoot. Sunlight streaming in through the canopy of trees. The hum of excitement as riders and walkers from the autism community and beyond mount their bikes and hit the trails. There are so many aspects of Wall Street Rides FAR that Paul Morris loves, but his favorite is having the opportunity team up with his family to support a cause that means so much to them.
“The six of us are very close. We enjoy each other’s company, and we always look forward to coming together as a family to support the Autism Science Foundation,” said Paul, who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD). “My mom, dad and three siblings have always helped me, and I am grateful and proud to walk with them.”
Paul founded Paulie’s Promise together with his family 19 years ago and since then, the tight-knit group has been involved in countless walks and events in support of autism research. Having participated in every Ride since the inaugural event in 2016, taking part in Wall Street Rides FAR has become a family tradition. For Paulie’s Promise, increasing awareness of ASD and educating those who may not be familiar with autism is critically important and one of the primary reasons Paul has supported the Autism Science Foundation since 2009.
“The more we work to educate others and support great organizations like the Autism Science Foundation, the closer we get to finding a cure,” shared Paul, who also serves as co-chair of the 5k walk portion of the Ride. “My family and I chose the name ‘Paulie’s Promise’ because a promise is something to want or something to advocate for. We all want to see new interventions, education and job opportunities for individuals living with ASD and it all starts with helping people understand.”
Diagnosed with autism at age 2 and nonverbal until age 5, Paul, with the unwavering support of his family, has worked hard to overcome many challenges in his life. Today, he lives alone, works two jobs and is a self-advocate who speaks at colleges nationwide to students majoring in psychology and special education.
“It is so important that those with ASD speak up and share their experiences. We can’t go without speaking up,” added Paul. “I live a rich and rewarding life, and I want to help all individuals with ASD experience the same opportunities that I have.”
While Paulie’s Promise enjoyed walking together close to home during last year’s virtual Ride, Paul and his family are excited to make their way once again to Saxon Woods Park in White Plains, New York, and be surrounded by the incredible energy and strong sense of community that Wall Street Rides FAR provides.
“I am very excited to see everyone again at this year’s Ride,” said Paul smiling. “Walking with my friends and family to support autism research means a lot to me. This event is truly for everyone, and I absolutely love being a part of it.”