More than 2 million Americans live with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurological developmental disorder that impairs the ability to communicate and interact. With love and community support, they can live independent and productive lives.
Show your support by wearing blue and attending the Autism Resource Fair from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, followed by educational workshops by local experts from 11 am to 1 pm, at Easterseals of Northeast Central Florida, 1219 Dunn Ave., Daytona Beach. The Autism Resource Fair coincides with World Autism Awareness Day, which also is April 2.
The event will include autism-friendly events, educational activities and refreshments. Attendees can test their knowledge of autism, create awareness art, and learn more about autism spectrum disorder.
Experts will be on hand from Easterseals’ Autism Center of Excellence, Volusia County Schools, Welcoming Hearts, doTERRA Wellness, Early Learning Coalition of Volusia & Flagler Counties, Tobii Dynavox (assistive technology for communication), Strategies, ADAPT, Special Olympics Volusia, The House Next Door, WORC, Beachside Music Therapy, Neural Balance, University of Central Florida Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) , Marcody Ranch, Disability Solutions, Brail and Talking Books Library, Blue Jay Academy, Chase Academy, City of Ormond, Hope Reigns and more.
Each year, Easterseals of Northeast Central Florida serves more than 500 children who have been diagnosed with ASD. The nonprofit agency also operates the Autism Center of Excellence – a one-stop center for diagnosis, interventions and case management for children who were referred by their physician for evaluation of ASD. To learn more about Easterseals’ autism services, visit http://www.easterseals.com/necfl/our-programs/.
For more information about the Autism Resource Fair or World Autism Day, contact Dorothy Lefford, OTL/R, Vice President – Clinical Services, at 386-944-7856 or dlefford@esnecfl.org.
