April is National Autism Awareness Month. During this month the public is urged to learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorder, which is the second most common developmental disability, and the resources available to people on the autism spectrum and their families.

On average, two North Carolina families per day have a child diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that the rate of incidence is up to 1 of every 150 children born and North Carolina continues to see an increase in the need for services and support for the 50,000 families affected by ASD in our state.

The North Carolina Public School Statistical Profile reports that the percentage of students on the autism spectrum in public schools greatly outpaces overall student population growth. Between 2007 and 2008, the school system grew 1.19 percent statewide, while the number of students with autism increased by 14.6 percent.

Scott Badesch, CEO of the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC), asserts that, "The increased incidence of autism in our state affects the demand for early intervention services, educational options and adult services in every community. As state government must cut funding due to less revenue, the need to assure for a service system for those with autism has never been so great."

During April there are several opportunities for the public to learn more about ASD and the work of the Autism Society of North Carolina.

Harris Teeter will celebrate Autism Awareness Days April 22 - May 5. Special $1 and $5 tickets will be sold at checkout to raise money to support services for people on the autism spectrum and their families. As an additional incentive, redbox will be offering a free one night movie coupon to customers donating $5 or more per visit.

ASNC provides free "Safe in the Community" kits for people with autism and their families. Kits include safety information for families, caregivers and first responders.

Autism Awareness Month kits are provided by ASNC at no charge. They include media releases, Public Service Announcement scripts and information about autism that can be shared with your community.

ASNC will provide free posters, brochures, handouts and stickers for awareness displays. Many of these materials can be found on the ASNC website, www.autismsociety-nc.org.

Mark your calendar for Friday, May 1 to celebrate the 2nd Annual Autism Society of North Carolina Awareness Night presented by Twins 47 at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park in Durham.

Attend a local chapter meeting, led by parent volunteers. The meetings are a great way to learn about what is happening on a local level and connect with other families to network and share information. Chapter meeting and special events are listed on ASNC's website.

For information about other events throughout the state, please contact the Autism Society of North Carolina at 1-800-442-2762.

Background:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which includes Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified, is a lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Recent studies estimate that up to 1 of every 150 children born today will be affected by ASD. There are no prenatal indicators for ASD. Trained professionals make a diagnosis through observation and evaluation. Currently, there are an estimated 50,000 individuals with autism in North Carolina and more than 1.5 million people with ASD living in the United States.

The Autism Society of North Carolina was founded in 1970 by a group of parents who were concerned about the lack of diagnostic and treatment services for their children. Since then, the Autism Society of North Carolina has become the foremost source in the state for connecting people who live with ASD (and those who care about them) with resources, support, advocacy and information.