Dear Washington Autism Community,
As we enter Autism Acceptance Month, I am writing to you on behalf of the Washington Autism Alliance (WAA) as we continue to foster a culture of acceptance, understanding, and inclusion for autistic individuals of all ages.
While Global Autism Awareness is on April 2nd and April is designated as the Autism Acceptance Month, every month of the year is an opportunity for us to celebrate the unique talents and strengths of our autistic community members, and to raise awareness about the challenges they may face in our society. It is also an opportunity for us to reflect on how we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for our autistic community members and their families.
At Washington Autism Alliance, we recognize the importance of collaborations with local, state and, national leaders involved in multiple systems of care and support for the autism community. Our advocacy is not activism, but rather collaborative partnerships in finding solutions to fill gaps in every community. We believe that by embracing neurodiversity and creating a culture of acceptance, and partnerships, we can unlock the full potential of every individual, including those with profound expression of autism.
One example of such a partnership is with Educational Service District 112 in Vancouver, WA. I spent some time on the road this past month, in Southwest Washington, observing the SPERO therapeutic education program and learned about plans to the expansion of a therapeutic day program for students with more intensive needs. It's always amazing to visit education programs and learn alongside education service districts, state, and national leaders. And, it's also comforting to come back home to my soggy little corner of Western WA, where every surface is a welcome spot for spring sprouting! ?????????
I invite you to join us in this important work and to learn more about how you can support individuals with autism in your community. Please think of ways you can take action and show your support for Washington’s autistic community members.
Here are some ways you can support WAA and the autism community:
- Create a Facebook fundraiser in support of WAA (Facebook: Washington Autism Alliance- WAA)
- Share your story with friends and family or let them know about the work WAA and other autism organizations. Home - Washington Autism Alliance
- Let the people with autism in your life know how valued and appreciated they are. Reach out to people in your community and ask them what they are proud of, struggling with, or something they need help with. Because our words and actions matter.
For the past 16 years, we have found a way, as a nonprofit organization, to fund programs and our impactful services. Our work is made possible thanks to the generosity of our donors. Donate to Washington Autism Alliance. Thank you for your commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals with autism and their families.
In gratitude,
Arzu Forough
President and CEO
Washington Autism Alliance