National Autism Awareness Day 2012

World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD)shines a bright light on autism as a growing global health crisis.  The estimated number of U.S.children with autism has skyrocketed by 78% since 2000, according to a report from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  One in 88 American kids has autism, according to the new figures. Among boys, it's one in 54. 
 
The Center for WAAD activities help to increase and develop world knowledge of the autism epidemic and impart information regarding the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention. Additionally, WAAD celebrates the unique talents and skills of persons with autism and is a day when individuals with autism are warmly welcomed and embraced in community events around the globe.

Partners In Learning staff and families will be celebrating WAAD by wearing blue and "lighting it up blue".  
By bringing together autism organizations all around the world, we will give a voice to the millions of individuals worldwide who are undiagnosed, misunderstood and looking for help. Please join us in our effort to inspire compassion, inclusion and hope.

Support is essential for families affected by autism.  The photo above is a family cookout of some our support group families.  They meet the last Thursday of each month at Port City Java in Salisbury, NC.  They also have a Facebook page.  You can find them by clicking on this link:  Find us on Facebook .
Thank you for celebrating the wonderful people in our lives affected by autism on April 2 and throughout April which was Autism Awareness Month. We look forward to celebrating with you on April 2, 2012!