April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day!
“Now is the time to work for a more inclusive society, highlight the talents of affected people and ensure opportunities for them to realize their potential… International attention is essential to address stigma, lack of awareness and inadequate support structures… Let us continue to work hand-in-hand with affected individuals which strengthen their lives and helps society as a whole.”
“Growing prevalence rates demand that we increase our support for autism,” Suzanne and Bob Wright, co-founders of Autism Speaks, said in a release.
Autism Speaks celebrates Light It Up Blue along with the international autism community, in commemoration of the United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day.
Light It Up Blue is a unique global initiative that kicks-off Autism Awareness Month and helps raise awareness about autism. Iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and George Washington Bridge in New York City, Niagara Falls in Canada, and Burj Al Arab in Dubai were shining bright blue lights in support of autism awareness. See pictures here.
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders. Here are some facts:
- Today, it is estimated 1 in 88 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum – a 1000 percent increase in the past 40 years that is only partly explained by improved diagnosis.
- Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
- Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism.
- An estimated 3 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism.
The Bay Area Christian Church believes in helping and serving our communities all across the Bay Area. We have been serving the community over thirteen years year round through our “E,” Exceptional Children’s Programs, such as E-Soccer and E-Karate.
This Saturday we invite you to join us at any of our E-programs across the Bay Area. E-Soccer is an all-volunteer, inclusive soccer program where typical and special needs children aged 5 and up participate alongside each other in an inclusive environment. We are dedicated to empowering children of all abilities to reach their full athletic and social potential.
