BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (WCCO) – Thousands of walkers headed to the Mall of America Saturday morning as it served as host for the annual “Walk for Autism Speaks” event.

The event featured a three-mile walk inside the mall to highlight several other events that were going on at the Mall of America to help raise money for autism. The event is in its sixth year at the Mall of America and its mission is to raise money and awareness for autism.

Officials said they expected 3,000 to 4,000 people at the “Walk for Autism Speaks” event.

Other events for autism at the Mall of America on Saturday include a Community Resource Fair, sponsors were also on hand. The biggest push is for an understanding an acceptance for children with autism and Asperger’s.