April is a time for recognizing Autism Acceptance Month as it sheds light on Autism awareness and celebrates the diversity among individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The origins of this special month date back to 1970 when parents formed the Autism Society of America to advocate for their children and raise awareness about ASD in society. In 1972, April was officially declared as National Autism Awareness Month by the organization, later transitioning its focus to emphasize acceptance in 2011.
Why Autism Awareness Month
This period offers an opportunity to educate the understanding and promote acceptance for those living with ASD. It also serves as a reminder of the need to establish supportive environments that enable those with ASD to thrive and fulfill their potential.
For example, this month, the Las Vegas hospitality company Caesars Entertainment hosted a meet-up for autism-affected families.
The special occasion took place on Thursday evening, welcoming families to experience the captivating makeover of the High Roller – a towering observation wheel. The wheel was adorned with spectacular colors – a representation of the spectrum.
Children who are being cared for at the Sharon Sigesmund Pierce and Stephen Pierce Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities were able to join in on the fun with their loved ones.
Caesars Foundation’s generous $25,000 gift
This very special experience was made possible through the Caesars Foundation’s generous $25,000 gift to the Pierce Autism Center at Touro University Nevada. Thanks to their willingness to make regular efforts to provide family-friendly activities for people living with autism, families were able to come together outside the clinic and in a holiday setting to relax and enjoy one another’s company.
High Roller is more than just a family outing, the event is an opportunity to celebrate Autistic individuals who have excelled, despite their challenges, and to educate the larger community about autism and the need for more research and treatment options. The money raised will help to improve the lives of the thousands of children impacted by Autism.
Autism Treatment and Support
Besides the effort made by Caesars Entertainment, Nevada Autism Center is another organization in Las Vegas that is devoted to advocating and providing customized care to ASD kids. Our professional team is striving hard to help create an enabling environment where disabled individuals can benefit from the same level of opportunities and services as others do, which is equally important for them to gain respect and acceptance in society.
We are determined to fulfill our responsibility to help ASD individuals to grow and thrive.