Community Corner
Autism Speaks: City of Gaithersburg Fundraiser
Gaithersburg Recognizes Autism Awareness Month: Fundraiser on April 10 at Growlers of Gaithersburg
Gaithersburg, MD – (March 14, 2011) During their regular meeting on April 4, 2011, the Mayor and City Council will declare April as Autism Awareness Month in the City of Gaithersburg. A proclamation in recognition of this designation will be presented to Nora Fitzpatrick, a local community organizer for the Autism Speaks “Light It Up Blue” awareness campaign.
A neural development disorder that is characterized by impaired communication and social behavior and by repetitive and restricted behaviors, autism is now believed to be prevalent in one out of every 110 children according to a 2010 U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate.
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In December of 2007, the United Nations passed a resolution declaring April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day. In the United States, the entire month of April is dedicated to spreading awareness, recognizing the importance of early diagnosis in providing the necessary resources and supports to children.
Autism Speaks launched the “Light It Up Blue” campaign, a global initiative to shine a bright light on autism as a growing public health crisis. Iconic landmarks, airports, bridges, museums, concert halls, restaurants, and retail stores around the world have participated by lighting up bright blue. To support the “Light It Up Blue” campaign, City employees will wear blue clothing and autism awareness puzzle piece pins on April 2. On April 4 during the Mayor and City Council meeting, a blue floodlight will shine on City Hall to commemorate the month.
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Locally, Growlers of Gaithersburg will host a fundraising event on Sunday, April 10, with 10% of all restaurant proceeds between 7 and 10:30 p.m. being donated to Autism Speaks. Informational literature will be distributed with receipt holders.
For more information on Autism Speaks and the “Light It Up Blue” campaign, please visit www.autismspeaks.org or www.lightitupblue.org. For information on the City of Gaithersburg please visit www.gaithersburgmd.gov.
