According to the Autism Society of America (ASA), “Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others”. Presently, the Center for Disease Control estimates that 1 in 150 individuals are impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorders.
“It has long been the case that youth, adults, and families in Marshall County have had to try to pool together on their own to seek support. Further, Marshall County has several businesses that have been working to provide needed support and services to this population on their own. What is wonderful about ARMC is that it brings together the best of these worlds in a joint effort to raise awareness and to promote quality of life within our local community”, says Carrie Cadwell, ARMC chairperson.
Mayor Senter, in the city’s proclamation, encouraged the people of the city of Plymouth to work together to ensure that individuals with autism are accurately diagnosed and appropriately treated throughout their lives.
“Parents and family members should know the telltale signs of autism so they may get early diagnosis and intervention,” said Andrea Cook, ARMC member. “Early intervention is imperative for children who may be on the spectrum so that they are given the resources and therapy needed to help them reach their highest potential. Being a parent is challenging. Being a parent to a child on the spectrum is even more complex.”
Across the nation, there will be events sponsored by professional agencies and parent groups to educate the public.
This year, Marshall County will be joining national awareness efforts with ARMC and will be running several events in April for families impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorders including a Children’s Story Hour at the Plymouth Library on Saturday, April 5 from 9 to 11 a.m. where children and their parents are invited for muffins, crafts and special stories by community leaders;  a Teen Night at Riverside Intermediate School where all are invited for an evening of food and fun with door prizes and sensory-friendly activities for teens and their famililes on Friday night, April 11 from 6 to 9 p.m.; and the First Autism Walk to be held at Centennial Park at the Greenways on Saturday, April 26 with registration at 9 a.m.
In addition, the group is holding two bake sales for the general public — the first this Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon at First Federal Bank and the second April 12 from 8 a.m. to noon at Kroger grocery store.
All events are free and the public is welcome.