As the month of April starts to creep upon us, it is important to remember that it is World Autism Month. Throughout this time, communities across the world raise awareness on Autism through fundraising and volunteering. Here are some ways you can make a difference in your community.
- Volunteer at Schools
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One of the best ways to help during World Autism Month is by lending a helping hand to schools that need it. Working with kids with Autism is hard work but it’s incredibly rewarding. You gain skills such as leadership, patience and the children love seeing new faces. Whether it’s coloring with them, playing outside, or tutoring them, your time will be appreciated by teachers and parents.
- Fundraise
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Fundraising for World Autism Month is an amazing way to raise awareness for Autism. The best way to make sure your funds are being used for the right reasons is through Autism Speaks. Not only will the donations be used for Autism-related research, but it will help families with medical bills, special services from hospitals, and materials as well. Moreover, according to Autism Speaks, they have funded $150 million dollars in total with an additional $496 million from publicly-sourced autism-related funding. Thus, the donations are being counted.
- Autism Speaks Walk
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One of the biggest events that occur during World Autism Month is the Autism Speaks Walk. This walk happens throughout the year but has different dates depending on your location. The national sponsor of the event is women’s sorority Alpha Xi Delta. Being a sister of this organization myself, it’s shown me the beauty in a community coming together to raise awareness on Autism. You can volunteer by setting up tents or bringing in food/supplies for the families that come in early that morning. After a few hours, the community does a silent count down and everyone walks together around the park or public areas you are in. Overall, the experience is incredibly rewarding; you raise money and awareness for Autism at the same time.
All in all, there are several ways to get involved this upcoming April for Autism Awareness. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, or go to your local walk, it will all help raise awareness for Autism.