April 13, 2024, WJTV, Jackson, MS: Ways to promote Autism Acceptance Month in Mississippi
As April continues, so do festivities as part of Autism Acceptance Month.
According to the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that usually appears early in life. Many children with autism have problems with communicating, socializing, and attentiveness. Early treatment can help children to talk, play, and develop more normally. . . .
As experts learn more about autism, new therapies have been introduced that address different aspects of this condition. Some therapies are medical, psychological or even behavioral. Organizations and communities exist to provide resources and support for families. Fundraisers and annual events occur to raise awareness for autism and sustain these organizations. Below are non-profits and upcoming events within the Magnolia State.
Organizations
Jackson Autism Center (JAC)
JAC is designed to meet the developmental needs of children, including but not limited to educational, social, communication, language, behavioral and self-help skills. Center-based services are currently available in small groups and for one-on-one intervention. Visit the organization’s website for more details.
Mississippi Early Childhood Inclusion Center (MECIC)
MECIC meets the needs of early childhood educators, families, and young children with disabilities by providing high-quality early childhood inclusion. The Mississippi Department of Human Services funds MECIC. Locations are in Gulfport and Hattiesburg.
TEAAM Autism
Based in Taylorsville, TEAAM is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Mississippians with autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, or specific learning disabilities. The organization’s two main goals are to
To inform people about autism and the services available to them; and
To increase the services accessible to these individuals and their families.
Events
Autism Run
Location: Tupelo
Time: April 13, 7:30-10:00 a.m.
The 5K is intended to promote autism awareness and acceptance in the local community and the Magnolia State. Proceeds from the $25 entry fee will go to the Autism Center of North Mississippi to provide affordable therapy for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. Same-day registration costs $35.
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Autism Screening Day
Locations: Oxford, Cleveland, Jackson, Meridian, Hattiesburg, Gulfport, D’Iberville
Time: April 23, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Families with children who are five and under can schedule an appointment to have their children screened for autism across Mississippi. To do so, call 601-266-4745. To find out where screenings are offered, click here.
Fundraising
Mississippi Autism Awareness car tags
TEAAM has an Autism Awareness car tag available for purchase in Mississippi. To get your TEAAM Autism Awareness license plate, apply for it at a county tax assessor’s office. There is a fee added to the regular car tag tax. Of that fee, 90% goes to promote autism awareness and to help TEAAM continue providing its programs.
TEAAM partnerships with local businesses
Magnolia Soap and Bath Co. Laurel and TEAAM Autism partnered up for a soap-selling fundraiser. All proceeds from buying specially marked soap bars will support the organization. Hill’s In-House Jewelers in Laurel is having a profit-share with TEAAM later this month. Twenty percent of all sales of the jeweler’s Kendra Scott collection from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on April 20 will support TEAAM Autism.
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