Today, the CDC identifies 1 in 68 children in the US as on the autism spectrum. With a statistic like that, it’s no wonder more and more families are advocating for and raising awareness of this developmental disorder. To recognize National Autism Awareness Month, we wanted to highlight some of our local resources and organizations (including early intervention), as well as few upcoming events taking place in the Rio Grande Valley.
RESOURCES:
ACES3 — a non-profit organization that serves as a valuable resource to families with children who have Autism Spectrum Disorders or ASD.
Autism Speaks RGV — this national organization has a local Parents Supporting Parents group in Weslaco.
Easter Seals — a national organization that provides exceptional services, education, outreach, and advocacy so that people living with autism and other disabilities can live, learn, work and play in our communities.
The Shape of Bahavior — an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Health and Behavior Intervention, neurofeedback, and Behavior Medicine clinic for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other disabilities. (Locations in Harlingen and McAllen)
Bebo’s Angels — a nonprofit organization created to raise awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorders and provide education and support for families with loved ones on the spectrum.
EVENTS:
**If you know of an upcoming Walk or Event, please let us know in the comments, and we will try to update this page ASAP!**
Autism Awareness 5K: Autism Council for Educational Support
This 5K run and walk aims to raise money for autism awareness in the Rio Grande Valley. There is a $10 participation fee, and all proceeds go to the Autism Council for Educational Support and Scientific Studies, which spreads autism information and raises money for research.
WHEN: 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Saturday, April 16
ONLINE: http://aces3.org/
COST: $10
Lark Library: 4th Annual Children’s Autism and Child Abuse Awareness Walk