Date: March 30
Location: City Park and Community Center
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Event Theme: “Embrace, Empower, Include”
Event Overview:
In honor of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, Charitable ASD Organization will host a day-long celebration to raise awareness, encourage inclusivity, and create a supportive environment for individuals with ASD and their families. This public event will bring together community members, advocates, and individuals impacted by ASD, fostering a day of education, creativity, and connection.
Event Schedule & Details:
1. Awareness Walk
- Time: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
- Route: 2-mile walk starting at City Park, ending at the Community Center
- Details: Participants are encouraged to wear blue to show solidarity with the ASD community. Volunteers will distribute banners and educational pamphlets along the route, each with key facts about autism to foster understanding and inclusivity. The walk will end at the Community Center, where a short ceremony will recognize the strides made in ASD advocacy.
- Special Feature: Families and individuals can carry personalized signs to show support and share their journey with ASD.
2. Community Art Exhibit
- Time: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Community Center Main Hall
- Details: An exhibit of artwork created by individuals with ASD will showcase their unique perspectives, creativity, and strengths. Art pieces will include paintings, drawings, and crafts, with each piece accompanied by a short story or description of its creator’s inspiration.
- Interactive Art Section: Visitors will have an opportunity to contribute to a community mural, symbolizing the unity and inclusivity of the community in supporting ASD.
- Art Sales: Selected art pieces will be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting ASD programs and services.
3. Public Talks and Panel Discussions
- Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: Community Center Auditorium
- Details: A series of short talks and a panel discussion will be led by ASD advocates, parents, educators, and individuals with ASD. Topics will cover personal experiences, overcoming challenges, and insights into creating more inclusive spaces.
- Guest Speakers Include:
- A young adult with ASD who will share his journey through the education system.
- A parent advocate speaking on advocacy within schools and the community.
- An educator discussing inclusive teaching methods.
- Q&A Session: Audience members will have the chance to ask questions, gaining insight into various perspectives on ASD.
4. Sensory-Friendly Activities
- Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Sensory Zones, Community Center Lawn
- Details: Special sensory-friendly zones will be set up to provide engaging, calming, and enjoyable experiences for individuals with ASD and their families. Activities include:
- Music Therapy Area: Soothing live acoustic music played at a low volume, featuring gentle instruments like the harp and flute to provide a calming auditory experience.
- Art Therapy Stations: Multiple tables with art supplies for painting, coloring, and clay sculpting, allowing for free creative expression.
- Interactive Sensory Stations: Hands-on sensory stations with tactile toys, sand, water tables, and safe play materials that cater to various sensory needs.
- Quiet Zone: An indoor quiet room equipped with soft lighting, bean bags, noise-canceling headphones, and calming visuals, offering a safe space for anyone who may feel overstimulated.
Additional Event Features:
- Resource Fair: A dedicated area where families can meet ASD-focused organizations, therapists, and service providers, gaining access to resources on therapy, education, and support services.
- Refreshments Booths: A variety of food and drinks available, including gluten-free and dairy-free options, with snacks selected for sensory-friendly preferences.
- Photo Booth: A family-friendly photo booth with props and signage promoting autism awareness, giving families a keepsake from the day.
Admission: Free for all, with donations encouraged to support Charitable ASD Organization’s programs and services.
