April 27, 2025

Shake-A-Leg Miami Hosts Autism Bay Day

A day of joy, inclusion, and connection on the water.

MIAMI, FL – On Sunday, April 27, 2025, Shake-A-Leg Miami opened its waterfrontcampus for a heartwarming community event: Autism Bay Day—a celebration dedicated to individuals with autism and their families. With over 170 guests in attendance, the day was a testament to the power of inclusion, accessibility, and joy.

Launching Boats and DreamsFamilies from across South Florida joined Shake-A-Leg Miami to enjoy a variety ofactivities tailored for all ages and sensory needs. The event offered a rich mix of fitness, art workshops, water-based activities, sensory stations, and a reading corner, creating spaces where guests could explore freely and connect meaningfully—all at no cost to participants.

Dedicated staff, volunteers, and youth mentors helped deliver the fun and serve more than 200 meals ensuring every family felt welcomed, supported, and cared for.

One of the day’s highlights was a visit and heartfelt remarks by City of Miami Commissioner Damian Pardo, who reflected on the importance of accessibility and community-based partnerships.

“Shake-A-Leg and the City of Miami share a long-standing partnership rooted in inclusion. Events like Autism Bay Day create a space where individuals and families candecompress, access the water, and connect with others who understand their journey, ”said Commissioner Pardo. “After recently experiencing life temporarily in a wheelchair, I have a deeper appreciation for how important accessibility is in our everyday lives. I want our community to know: your city is committed to making life better for everyone.”

Shake-A-Leg Miami’s founder, Harry Horgan, also emphasized the significance of the day: “Bay Days like this remind us why we do what we do. It's not just about sailing—it'sabout giving every person the chance to feel free, have fun, and be included. We’re honored to bring families together to celebrate their strengths and create lasting memories on the water. ”Autism Bay Day was more than a community event—it was a declaration of belonging. By creating accessible experiences on the water, Shake-A-Leg Miami continues its mission of empowering people of all abilities to embrace adventure, connect with nature,and find joy in every wave.

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