Autism Awareness Month

For over 4 decades the Autism Society has used the month of April to spread awareness for a developmental disability of unparalleled complexity and ambiguity:  Autism.  Occurring in nearly 1 in every 100 children, autism is characterized by reduced social and communicative abilities.  This month, Program Development Associates encourages individuals and businesses alike to participate in the Autism Society’s awareness initiative.

Autism Awareness Month

The Autism Society has served the autistic community in America since the early 1960s.  Since then, the Society has become a recognized leader in spreading awareness for the individuals, families, and employers who are challenged with the issues of autism each day.  The 1970s saw the birth of the National Autism Awareness initiative, a month long public outreach program aimed at educating the public on this complex condition.  The United States recognizes the month of April as an opportunity for individuals nationwide to unite in an effort to spread awareness for autism, ongoing developmental disability research, and a host of other issues related to the autism community.

It is estimated that about 60 individuals are diagnosed with autism each day (i).  These individuals are predominantly children between the ages of 3 and 5.  This month, the Autism Society gives us 5 ways to participate in spreading awareness and appreciation for this mysterious developmental disorder:

1) Wretches and Jabberers “Movievent”:  Don’t miss this documentary by Academy Award-winning director Gerardine Wurzburg.  Immediately following the screening will be a live panel discussion featuring Tracy Threshner and Larry Bissonnette, two self-advocates with autism.  You may view the trailer online at Wretchesandjabberers.org.

2) Vote 4 Autism:  Contact your state or Federal Representatives and urge them to become actively involved in the creation and enactment of autism legislation.  You may find more information at Vote 4 Autism organization Webpage.

3) Host an Awareness Event:  Having trouble finding a local community event for Autism Awareness Month?  Create your own using these resources provided by 1Power4Autism online.

4) Visit an AMC Theatre:  A romantic or leisurely trip to the movies is something most of us take for granted.  Those with autism may have special needs that are not accommodated by traditional movie showings.  This month, the Autism Society is partnering with AMC to screen Sensory Friendly Films for individuals with autism.  Learn more about this technology and how you can support it by clicking here.

5) Go Italian!  This month, Carino’s Italian Restaurant has committed to donating a portion of it’s proceeds to the Autism Society to help individuals and families affected by autism.

Please visit the Autism Society to learn more about autism, Autism Awareness Month, and other ways to get involved.

Autism Training and Education

One of the best ways to become involved in Autism Awareness Month is through autism training and education.  For businesses, interoffice training and educational initiatives are fundamental yet effective means of spreading awareness for this increasingly prevalent condition.  Organizations that engage in autism training and education better prepare themselves to accommodate prospective hires, current employees, and customers with autism.  Parents, too, can benefit from autism resources.  These leading multimedia products help parents and caregivers to actively support a loved one with autism or Asperger syndrome disorders.

Is your organization participating in National Awareness Month?  Log on and message your commitment to the DisabilityEDU Twitter account to help spread awareness for this elusive and complex disorder.  Together, we can raise help raise awareness of the autism community and provide support for the individuals, families, and caregivers of those with autism.

(i) http://www.autism-society.org/research/
*Image source: Blissfullydomestic.com