How to Observe Autism Awareness in April

April is Autism Awareness Month, making it a good time to get informed and involved. While most people are aware of the condition, some are still unaware of this widespread disease that affects so many children. Observance of the month makes a difference.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Ask your employer to get involved with the Autism Society of America's fundraising effort. Donations can be combined with money from your company that is used for continued autism research.
2. Organize a team to participate in a Walk Now For Autism event. Check the Autism Speaks website for a walk scheduled near you, and get a team of friends and family together to raise money and walk.
3. Plan a local fundraiser. From a simple bake sale to a silent auction, any contribution helps further the research into Autism. Get your kids involved, and suggest they help plan an autism awareness event through a youth organization or club.
4. Create an Autism Tributes web page in honor of someone you love with autism. The Autism Speaks website has created a way for individuals to make their own tribute pages and raise money for the cause at the same time.
5. Find a local or national organization and donate time or money. The Autism Speaks website has a list of links that include the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation, Easter Seals, Families Together, Unlocking Autism and Ready to Learn.
6. Donate an automobile to the Autism Society of America. Donations of vehicles are used to generate resources to fund the educational campaign.

Tips & Warnings

• Sign up for alerts from the Autism Society of America website. You'll be informed of any legislation about autism that is being discussed through a bi-weekly newsletter.
• Donations can be made to Autism Speaks at their website, or merchandise can be purchased from their online store.
• Get informed. Learn the facts about autism and what needs to be done to help by going to the American Academy of Pediatric Autism Resource Page.