Mason Recognizes Autism Awareness Month

GURNEE, Ill. – As part of Autism Awareness Month, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, is calling for expanded resources and greater acceptance for people with autism spectrum disorders.

“Going through unexpected circumstances, like the ones caused by COVID-19, can be especially difficult for people with autism,” said Mason. “If you know someone who is a caretaker for a person with autism, consider reaching out to them to see if they or the individual they care for could use some extra support right now.”

The Arc of Illinois is offering free webinars to help people with autism and their caretakers navigate challenges caused by COVID-19. The Arc of Illinois’ webinars can be accessed at www.thearcofil.org/covid-19-information. The Autism Program of Illinois also has a comprehensive collection of free tools and resources for people with autism at www.tap-illinois.org/resources/printed-resources.

“Autism Awareness Month serves as an important reminder to each of us to continue advocating for new laws and better services for individuals with autism,” Mason said. “I encourage everyone to read about autism to learn how we can all do our part to make our community a more inclusive and accepting place for people with autism.”

For more information on autism, please visit www.autismspeaks.org.