April has been recognized in some circles as Autism Awareness Month for some time, but in recent years it is gaining popularity and recognition. April events are popping up everywhere for Autism Awareness Month, and more people are beginning to understand what autism is along with the importance for more research and early intervention.
History
While the Autism Society of America has been recognizing April as Autism Awareness Month since the 1970s, only in recent years did the Senate confirm that in the United States, April is officially Autism Awareness Month.
Autism Awareness Month has grown so much in recent years that places all over the world are recognizing April as Autism Awareness Month. In 2009, April 2 was even celebrated as World Autism Day. Mexico, Japan, India and Canada all planned events to recognize World Autism Day in conjunction with Autism Awareness Month.
Walk Events
The most popular way to recognize Autism Awareness Month is through events. One of the oldest and most established events is the Walk for Autism Research, also known as the Walk Now for Autism. Started in 2000 by Autism Speaks, the walk has grown to include more than 40 walks around the world and has raised millions of dollars to fund autism research.
Other Events
There are many other events aside from walking events that happen during April to raise awareness and funds for autism. Build-A-Bear has been hosting workshops for siblings of children with autism since the early 2000s. Siblings can build an autism bear with the autism ribbon for their siblings with autism. The proceeds benefit autism research. In 2006, Build-A-Bear raised more than $40,000.
TJ Maxx's parent company presents an autism fundraiser every year, encouraging participation from stores on a local level.
Ways to Take Part
You can get involved in raising awareness and raising funds for autism research by taking part in one of the many events happening in April. You can also wear an autism awareness puzzle bracelet or ribbon to show your support for the autism community during April. You can purchase bracelets and other autism awareness items on the Autism Society of America's website.
Ways to Inform Others
If you think you are knowledgeable about autism, you can start helping to inform other people. The Autism Society of America makes this easy for you. You can visit its website and download informational materials to pass out to your friends and family. You can join the society and get even more informed, learn the current issues in the community and how you can help advocate for autism research.
Tags: Autism Awareness Month, Awareness Month, Autism Awareness, Autism Awareness, Autism Society
