Norwich Free Academy Hosts Autism Awareness Event

NORWICH, CT - From Norwich Free Academy: In recognition of April as World Autism Awareness month and April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day, Norwich Free Academy is hosting the Autism Safety & Awareness Expo and Light it Up Blue event, 6:00-8:00 p.m., Monday, April 2, in Norton Gym and the Atrium at NFA. The event will feature information about available community programs for individuals on the spectrum, and is free, open to the public, and family friendly.

The Autism Safety & Awareness Expo features keynote speakers Dr. Joel Bregman, Director of the Autism/Neurological Disorder Center, who will provide an overview of current statistics and behaviors, and Courtney Pinner, of Bloom Behavioral Services, who will speak about how to approach an autistic child or adult in an emergency situation.

Exhibitors include Zentastic Wellness Center/Take Time to Heal, Autistic Families of CT, UCFS, LightHouse Vocational Education Center, Bloom Behavioral Service, Coleman Pediatric Therapy, Bubbles to Butterfly Swim School, and more. The event also features entertainment from NFA’s Unified Club and dancers and bucket band, face painting, door prizes, and refreshments.

David Klein, Head of School, John Iovino, Director of Student Affairs, Lisa Wheeler, Director of Student Services will also speak, as well as Jacki Patenaude, Autism Speaks Volunteer Advocacy Ambassador for CT and parent of a child with autism, and Kyle and Joanne Beguhl, who will speak on how “It Takes a Community.”

At 8:00 p.m. the event will conclude with the symbolic blue illumination of the Atrium, part of the nation-wide Light it Up Blue campaign for autism awareness.

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