Events

• National Autism Acceptance Month
• 5K / 1K Fun Run
• Third Party Fundraisers
• Golf Tournament
• Calendar of Events
• Sponsor

APRIL IS NATIONAL AUTISM ACCEPTANCE MONTH!

Inclusion begins with acceptance.

This April, the Autism Society of America and Autism Society - The Heartland are proud to continue the “Celebrate Differences” campaign in recognition of Autism Acceptance Month. This campaign reflects a meaningful shift from focusing solely on awareness to embracing acceptance as we advocate for April to be officially recognized as Autism Acceptance Month nationwide.

While awareness is important, acceptance is essential. For many autistic individuals and their families, acceptance is still one of the greatest barriers to building strong support systems and living fully in all areas of life.

The Autism Society is committed to driving real change by fostering acceptance and increasing access to inclusive education, competitive employment, accessible housing, affordable healthcare, and comprehensive, lifelong services and supports.

Historical Context

In 1972, the Autism Society of America established “National Autistic Children’s Week,” which has since grown into a global movement recognizing April as Autism Awareness Month. Over the past 56 years, we’ve proudly led the way in advocacy, education, and community support. Today, our efforts are focused on securing a federally recognized designation of April as Autism Acceptance Month—because awareness is only the beginning.

In 2008, the United Nations officially declared April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day, a milestone the Autism Society helped make possible. Now, we’re collaborating with global partners to evolve this recognition into Autism Acceptance Day, as we continue to push for greater inclusion, equity, and meaningful change for the autism community worldwide.

Spread Acceptance

Knowledge is power, and understanding leads to inclusion. Share resources from Autism Society of America in virtual classrooms, home school sessions, or across your digital and social channels! You can also download this What Is Autism? Poster or Autism Awareness Brochure to share where you work, in school, or on social media!

#IAMME Challenge

#IAmMe seeks to empower individuals with autism by highlighting strengths as we celebrate differences. Please share a photo of yourself doing a favorite activity, to showcase pride and promote acceptance. Tag us on Facebook (@Autism.Society.The.Heartland), on Instagram (Aasheartland) and on Twitter (@ASHeartland).

Help Us Celebrate Differences

Take action and #CelebrateDifferences by committing to fundraise for Autism Society - The Heartland. Engage your employees through work-from-home efforts, host a peer-to-peer fundraising appeal, start a third party fundriaser, or donate now!