Autism-awareness Rally Slated for April 28 in Pittsfield

PITTSFIELD — Community members, legislators, and service providers will stand in solidarity with autism awareness at an event on Friday, April 28.

The rally — which will celebrate the accomplishments of individuals with autism and highlights the need for collaborative, streamlined services — is a collaborative effort of Hillcrest Educational Foundation, College Internship Program, AdLib, Autism Connections, Berkshire County Arc, and UCP of Berkshire County, and will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. at Park Square in Pittsfield. Speakers will address attendees at 5 p.m. To RSVP, e-mail dhess@hillcrestec.org.

April is Autism Awareness month, celebrated globally with various ‘Go Blue’ campaigns. The goal of the Berkshire County-based campaign is to heighten awareness of services available to individuals and families impacted by autism and to celebrate the accomplishments of those with autism.

The collaborating agencies have encouraged local businesses to decorate their window displays in blue for the month of April and asked community members to wear blue each Friday of the month to stand in solidarity with autism awareness. Additionally, they have been promoting a calendar of special events for those with autism and their caretakers to help improve access to services. Learn more at hillcrestec.org/autismawareness.