Checking in for Autism Awareness Month

April has been Autism Awareness Month - and still is right to the end. To mark the occasion, a number of organizations have stepped up their efforts to grow awareness of the condition and push for more research and services to improve the lives of those with autism.

One such organization is the California Autism Foundation, which launched a new website in April to mark the occasion. The mission of the California Autism Foundation is to provide people with autism and other developmental disabilities the best possible opportunities for lifetime support, training and assistance in helping them reach their highest potential for independence, productivity and fulfillment. Their new website includes more information, resources and links - find it at www.calautism.org.

They also still have a couple more events scheduled in April, if you're looking for an opportunity to connect.

Montclair Bistro Celebrity Bartender Event
Thursday, April 28th
6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
6118 Medau Place, Oakland, CA 94611

CAF Parents and Friends Meeting & Parent Workshops
Friday, April 30th
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
California Autism Foundation, 4075 Lakeside Drive, Richmond, CA 94806
For more details, see the calendar of events page on the calautism.org website.

Additional autism groups in California:
The Autspot is a social network for families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).  Their website also provides resources such as available programs for children and adults with ASD, as well as a library of information to better understand ASD.

The Care Parent Network is a family support and advocacy group made up of parents with special needs children based in Contra Costa County. Their website also contains a lot of helpful information and links to resources. Check their newsletter for information on opportunities to connect.

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Even if you or a member of your family is not affected by autism, it's becoming more and more likely that we all know someone who is. Hopefully, efforts to raise awareness will soon lead to more and better information on the causes of autism, better diagnoses, and ever more helpful treatments, care and services.

Think about those with autism in April. Contribute to the improvement of the lives of those with developmental disabilities when you can.