LITTLE ROCK - Arkansans will have the opportunity to support Searcy native Joe Aaron, co-creator of Disney's popular animated series "Doug", in his efforts to create a feature film titled Guttersnipes.
 
The father of an autistic child, Aaron wrote the family-friendly film to address autism, homelessness and race relations.
 
"At age three, my daughter was diagnosed with autism," Aaron said. "I started thinking, what will happen to her when I'm not around? How will she live? From these thoughts, hopes, dreams and fears I created Guttersnipes."

The film depicts the relationship between a homeless teenage girl and an abandoned 12-year-old autistic girl on a quest to find their mothers. It explores themes in race relations, autism awareness and female empowerment. 
 
The project is being funded in part through Kickstarter, an online funding platform for creative projects.
 
"When I started out, the only way to work in the entertainment industry was to 'play ball' with the Hollywood power brokers," Aaron said. "That's why Kickstarter and the independent film movement is so important. This time, I'm the producer, and there will be no Hollywood interference. By using Kickstarter, and with the help of the community, my film will remain mine - family-friendly and shot in my home state."

Kickstarter enables the community to donate money toward a film or creative project. Sponsorship levels begin at $5 and up. Kickstarter is an all-or-nothing funding method. Campaigns must reach the full funding goal before time runs out or else donors will be reimbursed. 
  
The Guttersnipes Kickstarter campaign ends Aug. 26, 2012. The fundraising goal is $150,000. You can support the film by pre-buying a DVD, a premiere ticket or any of the fantastic rewards they are offering.

Guttersnipes will be shot at a yet-to-be-determined location in Arkansas. For more information, find Guttersnipes at Facebook.com/Guttersnipesfilm or visit online at GuttersnipesFilm.com.