Community Fair Connects People with Autism and First Responders

This fun, free, and educational community event is being hosted by the Autism Society Central VA (ASCV) to provide an opportunity for individuals with autism, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families to meet and interact with first responders in a positive and encouraging environment.

According to the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission Autism Study (published June 2009, pg. 161-173), individuals with autism are seven times more likely to have a police encounter than their typical peers. Many individuals with autism also have a lack of safety awareness and a tendency for elopement or wandering, putting them at a greater risk of dangerous situations. From the news media and firsthand accounts, the ASCV has seen how some of the behaviors individuals with autism display can be misunderstood or misinterpreted by the police, other first responders, and the public, leading to altercations, injuries, arrests, incarceration, and even fatalities.

First responders, including Chesterfield Fire, Sheriff, Police, and K-9 Alert Search and Rescue will be on hand at this event to meet and interact with those in attendance. They will also be offering activities that help educate community members about safety and how to respond in an emergency, including a “fire house” where families can practice what to do in the event of a fire, and information on Project Lifesaver, Child ID Kits, and Address Flagging in the Chesterfield County Database System. Other fun activities families can enjoy at this community connection fair include: inflatables, carnival games, crafts, face painting, door prizes, and a visit from the Chic-fil-A Chester Fire Cow.

About the Autism Society Central VA The Autism Society Central VA (ASCV) is the local affiliate of the National Autism Society, the nation’s leading grassroots autism organization. The ASCV is the local voice and resource of the autism community in education, advocacy, services, and support. The organization fulfills its mission, to improve the lives of all affected by autism, by providing Information and Referral to anyone seeking resources on autism services and supports, sponsoring special interest groups and social opportunities for individuals and their families, awarding scholarships, and hosting educational events and training opportunities. The ASCV believes that each person with autism is deserving of a life full of dignity, value, and respect, and a life in a community where they can pursue options to maximize their quality of life. The ASCV is committed to meaningful participation and self-determination in all aspects of life for individuals on the autism spectrum, at any age and any stage, and their families.

Please visit www.ascv.org for more information.