The Thomas Family

World Autism Awareness Day
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
www.worldautismawarenessday.org

On December 18, 2007 the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 62/139 declaring April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) in perpetuity. This UN resolution is one of only three official disease-specific United Nations Days and will bring the world's attention to autism, a pervasive disorder that affects tens of millions.

The World Autism Awareness Day resolution encourages all Member States to take measures to raise awareness about autism throughout society and to encourage early diagnosis and early intervention. It further expresses deep concern at the prevalence and high rate of autism in children in all regions of the world and the consequent developmental challenges.

Autism Speaks believes that World Autism Awareness Day will shine a bright light on autism as a growing global health crisis. WAAD activities will help to increase and develop world knowledge of the autism epidemic and will impart information regarding the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention. Additionally, WAAD will celebrate the unique talents and skills of persons with autism and will be a day when individuals with autism are warmly welcomed and embraced in community events around the globe.

By bringing together autism organizations all around the world, we will give a voice to the millions of children worldwide who are undiagnosed, misunderstood and looking for help. Please join us in our effort to make this possible.

For more information on World Autism Awareness Day, visit www.worldautismawarenessday.org.


Celebrate World Autism Awareness Day in your Community!

Wear your Autism Speaks Puzzle Pin
Inform your friends and family about World Autism Awareness Day by forwarding this email
Read a book on autism, then donate the book you've finished to your local library
You can also participate in a Virtual Walk in honor of World Autism Awareness Day
Encourage your school to celebrate with these activities
Encourage your company or local businesses to celebrate with these activities
For more ideas on how to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day in your community, visit www.worldautismawarenessday.org.