Our Mission:
To foster understanding and create a welcoming and safe community for all those affected by Autism. We raise awareness throughout the Berkeley community, offer a variety of volunteer opportunities, and hold fundraising events.
*formerly Autism Speaks U at Berkeley
*formerly Autism Speaks U at Berkeley
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
- ASD is developmental disorder that causes issues with communication, social, verbal, and motor skills.
- Individuals with ASD can range from having cognitive impairments to typical or above average IQs.
- No two people with autism are alike, as it impacts each individual in a unique way.
- Although it is treatable, there is no found cause or cure for autism.
Why is Autism Awareness important?
- The rate of autism has steadily grown over the last twenty years, and now affects 1 in 68 children.
- Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder, yet the most underfunded.
- 35 percent of young adults (ages 19-23) with autism have not had a job or received postgraduate education after leaving high school. (Shattuck et al., 2012)
- Better understanding of autism is essential to promoting the lives of individuals with autism. Awareness may improve:
- the chances of an early diagnosis and support for infants with Autism
- lower incidents of bullying at school for children with Autism
- employment prospects for adults with Autism
- the chances of an early diagnosis and support for infants with Autism