Birch Family Services Honors Autism Awareness Month
Birch Family Services is honoring Autism Awareness Month in April by hosting a variety of events and a fundraising drive to recognize the needs and improve the lives of individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. Over forty-five years ago, Birch Family Services became one of New York City’s first special education schools and the nonprofit now supports over 2,000 individuals and their families through residential, educational, employment and community services. Birch Family Services is honoring Autism Awareness Month in April by hosting a variety of events and a fundraising drive to recognize the needs and improve the lives of individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. Over forty-five years ago, Birch Family Services became one of New York City’s first special education schools and the nonprofit now supports over 2,000 individuals and their families through residential, educational, employment and community services.
Autism Awareness Month was founded in 1972 by the Autism Society to advocate for and increase awareness of people living with autism, as well as create more opportunities and real change that better supports these individuals. To highlight the significance of this month and meet this mission, Birch Family Services will be hosting events and fundraising drives. The month’s activities kicked off yesterday at Pelham Bay Early Childhood Center, where New York City Councilwoman Marjorie Velazquez (District 13) visited the school to meet and read to students.
On April 4, students, faculty, and administration are taking part in an Autism Awareness Parade at East Flatbush Early Childhood Center and Springfield Gardens Education Center where students can celebrate themselves and highlight the importance of Autism Awareness Month to the community. Birch Family Services is also hosting a Gallery of Uniqueness where both staff and students will have the opportunity to showcase what makes them special to their peers and build connections within the classrooms.
“Autism Awareness Month provides an excellent platform to honor the autism community. Throughout April, we are continuing to ensure that individuals with autism and developmental disabilities lead healthy, successful, and fulfilling lives,” said Matthew Sturiale, CEO of Birch Family Services. “Thank you to everyone at Birch Family Services who bring our events to life, and all of our incredible supporters who continue to stand beside our cause during this month and beyond.”
As it continues to provide its integral community services all over New York City, Birch Family Services is also asking advocates and supporters to donate or contribute to the organization. Those interested can visit here to find the different ways to directly support children, adolescents, and adults with autism and developmental disabilities.