One out of every 150 children born will develop autism. Statistics like these have generated the need for a better understanding and research of ASD (autism spectrum disorders). In 2007 the United Nations declared April 2 as the World Autism Awareness Day. It is for this reason that many organizations worldwide develop activities during the month of April geared towards increasing the information available to the general public about this disorder.
Autism Society of America (ASA)
The ASA has been participating in April's Autism Awareness Month since the 1970's. They suggest six different ways for anyone to become involved.
- The first online grassroots website dedicated to autism, 1 Power 4 Autism, will help anyone interested in setting up an online fundraising event.
- "Bounce for Autism" is a partnership between ASA and playground franchise Pump it UP that is holding different nationwide family events during April. Checking the calendar of events of local ASA chapters will provide information on dates.
- Purchasing and wearing an autism awareness bracelet during April. Bracelets can be purchased online at the ASA shop.
- The book The Horse Boy will be published this April 14th. This book narrates the true story of a father's search to help his autistic son by taking advantage of the special bond he noticed his son had developed with his horse. This book has also been made into a documentary that will be shown during the month of April.
- ASA also has several free download materials that can be printed, such as posters and pamphlets, and distributed locally.
Autism Speaks
Another non-profit organization that has several activities going on during this month.
- They are best known for their "Walk Now for Autism" events nationwide.
- Toys "R" Us has partnered with this organization and has an instore fundraising campaign at its Babies "R" Us stores that began on March 1st and ends on May 1st. They publish a list of the ten most helpful toys for children with autism.
- TJ Maxx will be offering its customers at checkout a puzzle piece (the symbol for autism) for a $1 donation.
- Modell's sporting goods stores will also be hosting the $1 puzzle piece donation.
- Build-a-Bear Workshop has a purple teddy bear called Nikki III that it will be selling during April and donating the funds from sales to Autism Speaks. Once purchased, the bear will have a Autism Awareness ribbon attached. Also, a satin purple heart priced at $1 can be purchased at the store with funds being donated to Autism Speaks.
- Lindt chocolates has joined this year and will donate 10 cents for every sale of their chocolate Gold Bunnies. They have also designed plush Gold Bunny Ears that are available for purchase at their shops and online with sales going to Autism Speaks.
- Thomas and Friend's Live performances will be offering discounts to children with autism and their families.
- The Discovery Health channel will be providing information on autism diagnosis and treatments through its programs.
These are some of the many fundraising and awareness activities scheduled nationwide during the month of April. All of these events strive to increase awareness and understanding of autism as well as increase necessary funds for research. Although there is still much debate on the causes and best treatments, there is a general consensus for a better understanding and awareness of this puzzling disorder.
Please note that the following store names are registered trade marks: Toys R Us, Babies R Us, TJ Maxx, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Lindt, Thomas and Friend's Live.
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