On April 2nd, the Autism Society of Greater Akron (ASGA) joins the autism community in celebrating World Autism Awareness Day as it kicks-off National Autism Awareness Month!
“The theme of this year’s Autism Awareness Month campaign for the Autism Society of America and its affiliates is “We See Things Differently,” challenging us all to reach out to someone with autism and not only embrace what might be different but find a connection to share and grow,” said Laurie Cramer, Executive Director of ASGA. “As we do 365 days a year, our team will focus this month on raising awareness and connecting individuals and families with needed resources, along with advocating for improved laws and regulations that better support individuals with autism in the long term. Join us in celebrating differences by taking meaningful action in helping to improve the lives of all affected by autism in the Greater Akron community!”
ASGA’s calls to action for this April include Share, Act, Learn & Give, which will be wrapped up into the stories they share throughout the month called A Day in the Life at the Autism Society of Greater Akron. "We hope people will learn more about what we do to support our community and how they can get involved," added Laurie Cramer.
SHARE your stories about life with autism. Teachers, friends, therapists, school bus drivers, and family members… and share your story with ASGA or your friends on social media! Use the hashtag #CelebrateDifferences!
ACT to bring more awareness and understanding of autism.
- Wear an autism awareness ribbon
- Invite a friend or family living with autism to a family “movie night” or summer BBQ
- Visit ASGA's Advocacy page to learn more about state and federal laws/regulatory changes that you can support by calling your legislators
- Attend one of the autism awareness events or third-party fundraisers on ASGA’s April events flyer.
LEARN more about autism. Here are just a few facts to consider…
- About 1 percent of the world population has an autism spectrum disorder. (CDC, 2014)
- Prevalence in the United States is estimated at 1 in 59 births. (CDC, 2018)
- More than 3.5 million Americans – including adults - live with an autism spectrum disorder. (Buescher et al., 2014)
- Visit your local library to learn more. ASGA collaborated with local libraries to create displays of books, videos, and other information.
- Visit ASGA’s website at www.autismakron.org to learn more about what they do in the community and how you can get involved.
GIVE to support ASGA and their work in the Greater Akron community. Become a member, donate, or give your time. You are working and contributing to your own community where it will make the most impact!
Background: National Autism Awareness Month was originally launched in the 1970s by the Autism Society of America (ASA) to promote awareness, inclusion, and self-determination for all, and to ensure the highest quality of life for individuals with autism.
