GRACE (VA) Co-Sponsors Free Program for Autism Awareness Month

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT:
Deanna L. Parker
Greater Richmond Autism Coalition for Equality (GRACE)
P.O. Box 314
Mechanicsville, Virginia, 23111
Phone: (804) 257-9007

Two Local Groups Sponsor Free Program for Autism Awareness Month

Richmond, VA (April 6, 2006)—Autism organizations nationwide have joined together to designate the month of April as Autism Awareness Month. In an effort to increase understanding and awareness of Autism, the third leading childhood disorder in the United States, the Greater Richmond Autism Coalition for Equality (GRACE), a local parent education, advocacy and support group, and the Diversity Council of J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, are hosting the Fourth Annual Autism Awareness Program, “A Parent’s Guide to Educating Your Child with Autism in Virginia.” The program is free of charge and will consist of an interactive panel discussion on educational interventions and supports for children with autism throughout the lifespan. Topics will include successful educational programming and strategies, how to build and maintain effective relationships with school administrators and professionals, IEP team building, and planning for independent living.

The program will be held on Saturday, April 29th 2006 from 8:30-1:30 p.m. at the J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Downtown Campus Auditorium. Food will be provided for program attendees, including a continental breakfast and lunch. Supervised children’s activities will be available for the first thirty registrants. Advance registration is recommended. On-site registrants will be accepted on a first come first served basis. For more information or to register for the program, please visit the J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College website at www.reynolds.edu or call GRACE at (804) 257-9007.

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects an individual in the areas of social interaction and communication. The Department of Health and Human Services, The Center for Disease Control, The American Academy of Pediatrics, The Medical Home Initiatives and First Signs now report that one in 166 children are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. One out of six children is diagnosed with a developmental disorder and/or behavioral problem.

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For information, resources and practical strategies on autism visit:
www.AutismConcepts.com
www.child-autism-parent-cafe.com