Many of you may know April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day and the month of April as April Awareness month. The United Nations voted to create World Autism Awareness day in late 2007 which invited UN countries to increase the awareness of individuals with autism in the communities and globally. 11 years later, has the autism community had enough awareness? Well quite frankly, yes, because we/they are the Autism Community! We live it, we accept it, and we work daily with Autistic adults and teens, and their families to improve and enrich their quality of life.
But, does the world at large need more awareness? Maybe. Probably. However, let’s get past that for a moment and ask what do Autistic adults, teens, children, and their family members need? What do most people seek throughout their lives?
Understanding. Being accepted and loved for who they are.
GRASP Board Member and self-advocate, Chloe Rothschild, put its simply “Please, accept Autism. I know it’s not always unicorns and rainbows. But the happy moments, the accomplishments are amazing. The villages of people that I’ve met along the way are incredible. I’m on a mission to educate people about Autism from my perspective and not just during April, all year long. Different not less.”
So this day and for the month, we, at GRASP, will be celebrating Autism Acceptance Month to show the world that we are aware of Autism and we accept it!
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, GRASP relies on fundraising and generous donations to continue to improve and enrich the lives of Autistic adults, teens, and their family members. If you are able to contribute, any amount is appreciate. Thank you!