Host families with children with autism make up the largest single group of host families at PROaupair. We’ve been active supporters of the autism community for many years and encourage our local area directors and au pairs to participate in related events during the month of April or year round.
Interested in helping to promote awareness of autism spectrum disorder? Here are a four key ways you can get involved next month!
Light the Blue with Autism Speaks
Each year, Autism Speaks does a campaign called “Light the Blue” in recognition of World Autism Awareness Day and World Autism Month. They encourage individuals around the world to wear blue on April 2nd in honor of the missions of individuals and families affected by autism.
They also encourage active engagement via social media channels. Options include taking a selfie while wearing blue and posting it on social media with the hashtag #LightItUpBlue, turning your social media profile pic blue, or changing your Facebook cover photo to promote #LightItUpBlue. For more info and social media tools to adjust your profile go here.
Participate in an April Event
Communities across the U.S. hold events, fundraisers, walks, charity baseball games and concerts, or other activities related to Autism Awareness Month. Google “autism awareness month activities” plus the name of your local community, city or state, to find events near you.
Join a Local Autism-Related Community
Autism Society’s website offers a number of options for how to get involved on an ongoing basis. From signing up for their newsletter to joining a local affiliate where individuals and families can get support and share their experiences to monthly screenings of “sensory friendly films” in partnership with AMC Theaters, there are numerous options for how to get involved. For more information go to the “get involved” section of the Autism Society’s website.
Make a Donation
There are a number of reputable charitable organizations that support individuals and families impacted by autism. These include Autism Speaks, The Autism Society, and the Autism Research Foundation, among others.