April Is Autism Awareness Month

Main Category: Autism
Article Date: 25 Mar 2009 - 1:00 PDT

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Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the U.S., affecting 1 in 150 children. Every 20 minutes, a child is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Autism is more common than juvenile diabetes, childhood cancer and AIDS combined. It is one of our community's most urgent needs. With these powerful statistics as motivation, Fraser is working to raise awareness in the community. Fraser is the longest-running, largest provider of autism services in Minnesota. Fraser provides extensive diagnosis, treatment and support services for children and adults with autism spectrum disorders and their families. Fraser experts are sharing their knowledge at numerous events and conferences in the community.

-- World Autism Day on April 2. People worldwide will be using this day to bring awareness to autism as a growing global health crisis. To schedule an interview with a Fraser autism expert, please contact Mary Trierweiler.

--- Inside the Child: Social and Emotional Development Conference on Monday, April 13, at Ramada Mall of America. Fraser is hosting an interactive training from 6:30-8:30 p.m. that will give participants a chance to look at a child's behavior from the "inside-out." Participants will examine children's temperament and development in relation to behavior. The cost to attend is $35 and includes a copy of Children and Challenging Behaviors. Registration information can be found at www.fraser.org/seminars.

-- Fraser Anoka Open House on Thursday, April 16, at Fraser Anoka. Fraser is hosting an open house for current client families and the public from 3-6 p.m. The open house will feature an overview of services and care, interactive skills training demonstrations, visual displays, food and prizes. All are invited to visit to learn more about our programs, including skills training, therapies, and child and family mental health services. This event is free and more information can be found at www.fraser.org/calendar.

-- Second Annual Fraser Walk for Autism sponsored by GMAC Financial Services on Saturday, April 18, at Mall of America. Registration opens at 7 a.m. and the walk goes until 10 a.m. Join the fun by forming a team and walking to raise funds for local autism services. All the money raised goes to support local families served by Fraser. The walk includes children's games and prizes, live music and performances, therapy animals, mascots and local celebrities. This event is free and more information can be found at www.fraser.org/calendar.

-- Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders and Basic Inclusion Strategies conference on Thursday, May 14, at Ramada Mall of America. This conference will run from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Experts will provide an overview of autism and the other disorders that fall on the spectrum. There will be discussion about the difference between autism and Asperger's Disorder. Basic inclusion strategies will also be discussed.

-- Changing the Look of Autism conference on Thursday and Friday, June 18-19, at Ramada Inn Mall of America. Fraser will share its expertise at a two-day autism conference for professionals and parents of early childhood and school-age children with autism spectrum disorders. Sessions will include education techniques, assessment information, intervention strategies and much more. Educators (regular and special education), mental health practitioners, direct service providers, directors and administrators, and parents of children with autism spectrum disorders are invited to attend.

Fraser is a Minnesota nonprofit with a nationally renowned reputation, serving children and adults with special needs. This multi-faceted human service organization provides direct services, information and support in the areas of education, housing and healthcare. Fraser serves children with developmental disabilities; children who are at risk for abuse and neglect; children with autism and severe emotional and behavioral disorders; and adults with developmental disabilities. Fraser is Minnesota's longest-running, largest provider of autism services.

Fraser
http://www.fraser.org