According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 1 in 59 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and it affects people of all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups.
Autism Awareness Day is April 4, and the Chattanooga Autism Center is helping to spread the word through its annual Autism Awareness Day Celebration at the East Ridge Community Center Saturday, April 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Everyone is welcome to attend the free event, which features games and activities including giant inflatable bowling, sensory bins, hula hoops and balloon animals, said Chattanooga Autism Center volunteer and event committee member Celeste Lipps.
Members of local cosplay group Chattooine dress as heroes and villains for last year’s Autism Awareness Day event. (Photo contributed by Celeste Lipps)“It’s a great event and it supports a good cause,” she said, as to why she thinks people should attend. “I think the more people that are aware of autism, the more they can understand and recognize and appreciate it.”
Attendees will be entered to win door prizes, and there will be food donated by Chick-fil-A and Mellow Mushroom along with other snacks and drinks, said Lipps.