At DCAFS, #WorldAutismAwarenessDay holds such special significance as we come together to celebrate our vibrant community.

We celebrate the children, youth, adults, caregivers, and families who are an integral part of our services and supports, which allows our organization to thrive. We celebrate our staff members who are the heart and soul of our work, embodying our vision, mission, and values with passion and dedication each day. We are proud to recognize and celebrate the outstanding partnerships we have forged across the Dufferin region, working hand in hand to make a difference in our community. We celebrate the generosity of our supporters – your contributions help us continue our vital work in all we do.

Moving forward, one of our primary objectives at DCAFS is to foster a more inclusive and accessible world that values the unique contributions of all individuals, including those on the autism spectrum. As we mark this April as #AutismAwarenessMonth, we emphasize that awareness is merely the first step of many.

#AutismAcceptance is our next step, highlighting the diverse strengths, complexities, and individuality that each person with neurodiversity holds. Acceptance plays a crucial role in empowering autistic individuals to embrace their distinctiveness and face societal stigmas. By promoting acceptance, we aim to cultivate inclusivity in schools, workplaces, and communities, thereby nurturing a more diverse and harmonious society.

Let us unite on April 2nd to recognize #AutismAwareness globally but let us also use this day as an opportunity for introspection and recommitment within our community. It is a time to take positive actions, foster acceptance, and celebrate the passion of what we do and the communities we serve.

Together, we are creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone!