Autism Is: Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month
Since 1987, the Autism Society of Greater Akron (ASGA) has empowered the Autism community through five core services: adapted community events, advocacy, education, information and referral, and support. This Autism Acceptance Month, we want to amplify the voices and lived experiences of individuals living with Autism to learn what Autism Is.
Autism Is personal and collective—an identity, a culture, a way of life. It comes with strengths and struggles, moments of joy and challenges.
By embracing the full reality of Autism, we move beyond awareness toward acceptance and meaningful action. This Autism Acceptance Month, you can make an impact – by sharing your story, getting involved, and supporting the Autism community.
Resources for Autism Acceptance Month
WHAT IS AUTISM?
AUTISM SOCIETY IMPACT
INTERACTING WITH A PERSON WITH AUTISM
COMMUNICATION BOARDS
Boards are available for download, with images that represent racial diversity and inclusivity.
Learn About Autism
READ
Books written by authors with Autism.
Introduce your children to books that talk about disabilities and celebrate differences.
FOLLOW
Many caregivers and individuals with Autism document their journey on blogs to give others insight and hope.
LISTEN
To podcasts, music artists, and other audio media about Autism.
WATCH
Movies and TV series about Autism.
Attend an Adapted Community Event
April 7, 14 & 21 – Parent Cafés: Unite Voices and Embrace Differences (3-Part Series)
An opportunity for caregivers of individuals with Autism to connect and discuss topics like Parental Resilience and Child Development. Attend all three sessions to be entered to win a $300 gift card or a self-care gift basket.
April 12 – Bowling with the Easter Bunny
Enjoy time with friends and family bowling at Kent Lanes – 11th Frame. Enjoy lunch and get your photo taken with the Easter Bunny! Cost is $11 for bowlers and $5 for food only.
April 27 – Jump at Get Air Akron
Free jump time for individuals with disabilities and their families. Two session times to choose from 10-11am or 11am-12pm. Made possible by a sponsorship from the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation! Free event, but registration is required.
Advocate
Advocacy is at the heart of our mission, driving positive change for individuals and families living with Autism. Our advocacy efforts focus on raising awareness, influencing policy, and providing resources to empower the Autism community. Join us in making a difference and ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
Commune In Unity (Community)
Impact of Education & Medicaid Policy Changes on Ohio
Join ASGA at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, April 29 for an in-person gathering at the Akron-Summit County Public Library Auditorium.
Kerry Agins (Agins & Gilmore LLC) and Gary Tonks (The Arc of Ohio) will provide an update on the status of education and Medicaid in Ohio and how it could affect the disability community.
This is a follow up to the Information & Listening session held on March 31. Kerry Agins (Agins & Gilman LLC) and Delancy Allred (Autism Society of America) informed the audience of potential policy changes in education and Medicaid.
A March 31 Event Participant Said This:
“Hearing from the experts and taking the “politics” out of the messages was most helpful. The past few months have been so emotional and fraught that it is hard to decipher between facts and media spin. Plus I feel the information dug deeper into our direct needs as caregivers, educators, and self-advocates. Very well done! ”
Volunteer Your Time
Volunteering with the Autism Society of Greater Akron (ASGA) is a great way to support the Autism community. Your time and talents are needed to create inclusive events and Autism acceptance. Join ASGA to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with Autism and their families.
Current Opportunities
Step Into Autism
June 7 – Summit County, Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Amphitheater
June 28 – Stark County, On the Grounds of the McKinley Presidential Museum
iCan Bike Camp
July 7 to 11 – Copley High School
July 14 to 18 – Jackson High School
Raise Money to Support Programs
Donating to the Autism Society of Greater Akron (ASGA) is a powerful way to support your Autism community. ASGA creates connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources to live fully. Your contribution helps fund five core services: adapted community events, advocacy, education, information and referral, and support. By donating, you are making a tangible difference in the lives of Autistic individuals and their families, empowering them to thrive and reach their full potential. Together, we can build a brighter future for all!
Create a Facebook Fundraiser:
Go to the Autism Society’s Facebook page and follow the directions in the graphic to the left on “Creating a Fundraiser”. Share with your friends and family to collect donations.
Participate in Step Into Autism:
Summit County: June 7 @ Cuyahoga Falls Downtown Amphitheater
Stark County: June 28 @ McKinley Museum in Canton
Rally your family and friends! Make a team, become a sponsor or volunteer with ASGA.
Make a Donation
Help ASGA continue to serve the growing number of individuals with Autism in our community find the supports, services, resources, and information they need to live fully.
