April is National Autism Awareness Month

In order to highlight the growing need for concern and awareness about autism, the Autism Society has been celebrating National Autism Awareness Month since the 1970s. The United States recognizes April as a special opportunity for everyone to educate the public about autism and issues within the autism community. Continue reading to find out how you can get involved with the autism community this April. 
 

Attend a Wretches & Jabberers "movievent."
The Autism Society is proud to partner with Academy Award®-winning director Gerardine Wurzburg to release her feature length documentary Wretches & Jabberers during National Autism Awareness Month in April 2011. The film will be released through nationwide “movievents,” which will include a screening of the film and a live panel discussion featuring Tracy Thresher and Larry Bissonnette, the film’s featured self-advocates with autism. Check back here for tour updates and don't forget to watch the trailer at www.wretchesandjabberers.org.

Make a difference. 
Contact your representatives on the state and federal level and ask them to "Vote 4 Autism." For more information about this legislation and to take action to support it, visit www.vote4autism.org.

Connect with your neighborhood. 
Many Autism Society local chapters hold special events in their communities throughout the month of April. But if you can’t find an event that suits you just right, create your own! 1Power4Autism is an online tool that makes it easy to mobilize friends and family and help make a difference.

Watch a movie.
Did you know that something that seems as simple as going to the movies is not an option for many families affected by autism? The Autism Society is working with AMC Theatres to bring special-needs families Sensory Friendly Films every month. Click here for more information.

Visit a Carino's Italian Restaurant.
Carino's Italian Restaurant (located in Clifton, New Jersey) will give a portion of it's proceeds gained throughout the month of April to the Autism Society to help commemorate National Autism Awareness Month and to help families affected by autism.