BIRMINGHAM, Ala. —

Mitchell’s Place, a Birmingham-area nonprofit that supports children with autism and other developmental differences, celebrated its 20th anniversary with the fourth annual dragon boat race and festival at East Lake Park on Saturday.

Dragon boat racing dates back more than 2,300 years. In the event, a team of 11 or more paddlers races a 46-foot-long boat to the finish line.

The race raises funds for Mitchell’s Place and promotes autism awareness.

>> COMING TOGETHER: Project CommUNITY

“We hope people walk away with greater awareness of Mitchell’s Place and autism in general. One in 31 children is diagnosed by age 8. That has a significant impact on the community, and early intervention is critical," said Sara Nall, executive director of Mitchell’s Place. "If yo

See Full Page