April is Autism Awareness Month

April is known as Global Autism Awareness Month. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. One in 36 children are diagnosed with ASD, 20 years ago, that number was 1 in 150. The reason this disorder is referred to as a spectrum is because no two autistic persons present the same way. Chances are many of us may have a family member who has been diagnosed with ASD or have a friend who has a family member that has been diagnosed with ASD.

In simple terms ASD affects how a person perceives and interacts with their surroundings. It can affect how a person communicates, connects with others, and understands the world around them. ASD is a part of many people’s lives, and being informed about it can boost autism awareness by creating a supportive and educated community.

We do not want to be a faceless resource to our communities, we are building a village full of diverse and unique individuals both within our Union and our communities who want to know that we support them; and in turn, we want them to support us as we get back to our roots as the "Community-Minded Union." So let's gather in Unity for the wonderful celebration of Autism awareness month, and let's build and strengthen our community engagement!

We have some Mobilization opportunities this month::

AUTISM AWARENESS ACTION:

BLUE porch lights to light it up BLUE for Autism all month. Please post your pictures to our local's facebook page.

This weekend on Saturday, April 5th, Our Local will participate in the Autism Walk, we encourage everyone to get registered and come out and support. The registration is $30 and the link is located below! Also shown below are Autism resources throughout the state. Please feel free to reach out to Melissa H. Bell for more information.

https://runsignup.com/Race/Register/?raceId=137750