April is Autism Awareness Month
1) the Run for Autism 5K is back
— skipped last year
— 2 options for safe participation — virtual or in-person distanced trail run
— what the race has traditionally meant for VIA – 1000 participants, over $100,000 raised in past years — kids race, lots of family fun. We’ll get back there eventually, but for now, we’re excited to start moving back toward normal.
2) VIA accelerated back to full-time in-person services last week because our service population needs it
— challenges for special needs families under pandemic
— the intensity of learning that delivered – communications, behavior, social, and life skills — all better in person
— 3 key programs building a comprehensive model of service – School, Outpatient, Adult
3) big developments on the horizon growing VIA services
— new Center for Adolescent and Adult Autism Services opening in May — grand public celebration in fall
— Perry Foundation matching grant to help fund restoration – currently fundraising to match
— site of former Senior Center — will be a community hub for independent living, social connection, vocational opportunities for adults with autism
— new facility opens up space at other programs – more room for younger students at school, more floor space for staff and clients at Outpatient Clinic
Virginia Institute of Autism | Home Page (viacenters.org)