Governor & First Lady Raise Awareness of Autism | Eastern North Carolina Now

    News Release:

    Raleigh, NC     Governor Pat McCrory has proclaimed April 2, 2014 as "World Autism Awareness Day" and the entire month of April as "World Autism Awareness Month," encouraging citizens to cultivate a better understanding of autism and its prevalence in North Carolina.

    The governor and first lady will illuminate the executive mansion in blue the evening of April 1. Lights go on at 7:30 p.m April 1, right before sunset.

    The mansion lighting is a part of the "Light It Up Blue" campaign, sponsored by the national organization Autism Speaks.

    "Autism awareness is critical for early detection," First Lady Ann McCrory said. "With 1 in 68 American children being diagnosed with autism, Pat and I would like to join organizations around the world to celebrate this day of awareness by lighting up the executive mansion and the western residence blue."

    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services provides a variety of services to people with autism. Services are provided through the LME/MCO using state funds and primarily through the Medicaid Innovations waiver for people with I/DD.

    In addition, services are provided through the Division of State Operation Health Facilities and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation which provide employment services for individuals with autism. Services through DHHS support individuals with autism from early childhood through adulthood.

    Research has shown that early intervention plays a critical role for children on the autism spectrum. Recognizing this, the North Carolina Division of Mental Health contracts with three nonprofit organizations: The ABC of NC Child Development Center, Easter Seals UCP and The Mariposa School.

    These organizations support early intervention services in North Carolina. Through the contracts, these programs offer financial support and scholarships for children 3-5 years old on the autism spectrum, allowing them to attend programs specifically focused on their strengths in addition to their needs.

    Through methods such as applied behavioral analysis (ABA) and functional communication training, children served in these programs have improved outcomes in social interactions, communication and transitions to the public education system.

    Read the proclamation here.


    Contact: Crystal Feldman
       govpress@nc.gov