WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

April is Autism Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives of individuals with autism. At MBIC we understand that autism doesn't disappear when someone becomes an adult. In fact, many adults with autism face unique challenges that require ongoing support and understanding.

Throughout the month, we focus on sharing stories and providing opportunities to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism and fostering worldwide support.

Did you know that adults with autism often experience difficulties finding and maintaining employment, accessing appropriate healthcare, and building meaningful social connections? At MBIC, we're committed to breaking down these barriers. Our Clubhouse program offers a safe, supportive environment where adults with autism can thrive.

Empowering Adults with Autism This April!

April is Autism Awareness Month! MBIC, we’re committed to breaking down barriers and providing vital support to adults with autism. We understand the unique strengths and challenges they face, and we’re dedicated to creating a safe, thriving community.

Our Comprehensive Support Includes:

  • Education & Employment: Job readiness, vocational skills, and assistance for the underemployed.

  • Health & Wellness: Therapeutic services for physical and mental well-being, including mental health support.

  • Community Integration: Multiple weekly outings, transportation training, and building meaningful connections.

  • Essential Services: Crisis support, food security, and veteran support.

  • Inclusive & Accessible: Valuing every individual, ensuring everyone feels valued and respected.

Why Your Support Matters:

Your generosity directly impacts lives by:

  • Expanding our programs to reach more adults with autism.

  • Empowering individuals to gain independence and achieve their goals.

  • Building a stronger, more inclusive community for all.

Here are 5 ways you can support MBIC’s mission during Autism Awareness Month:

  1. Make a Direct Donation: Your financial contributions directly fund our programs, enabling us to provide essential services like job training, therapy, and community integration for adults with autism. Every dollar helps us expand our reach and impact.

  2. Spread Awareness on Social Media: Share our posts, statistics, and stories about autism on your social media platforms. Use the hashtag #AutismAwarenessMonth and tag us so we can amplify your message. Educating your network can help reduce stigma and increase understanding.

  3. Volunteer Your Time: Offer your skills and time to support our programs. Whether it's helping with administrative tasks, assisting with events, or leading a workshop, your involvement is invaluable.

  4. Share Personal Stories: If you or someone you know has a connection to autism, consider sharing your story. Personal narratives help to humanize the statistics and create a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs.

  5. Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Contact your local representatives and advocate for policies that support adults with autism, such as increased funding for services and employment opportunities. Your voice can influence positive change.

  1. "Adults with autism don't want social interaction." This is a misconception. Many adults with autism desire social connection but may find social interactions challenging due to differences in communication and social understanding. They may need support in navigating social situations, not isolation.

  2. "Autism is a childhood condition that people outgrow." Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. While some individuals may learn coping strategies and develop skills that help them manage certain challenges, autism itself does not disappear with age.

  3. "All adults with autism have savant abilities." The portrayal of autism in media often focuses on individuals with extraordinary talents. However, savant abilities are rare, even among individuals with autism. Each person with autism has their own unique strengths and challenges.

  4. "Adults with autism can't live independently." With appropriate support and resources, many adults with autism can live independently or semi-independently. They may benefit from assistance with tasks such as budgeting, meal planning, or navigating public transportation, but they are capable of achieving a high degree of autonomy.

  5. "Adults with autism lack empathy." This is a harmful stereotype. Individuals with autism may express and process emotions differently, but they are capable of deep empathy and care for others. They may need clear and direct communication to understand and respond to emotional cues.

What are the 5 common misconceptions about adults with Autism:

Understanding Autism in Adults: Facts and How You Can Help.

While awareness often focuses on children, autism is a lifelong journey. At MBIC, we recognize the unique challenges faced by adults with autism and are dedicated to providing support and resources.  

Here are some crucial statistics about adults with autism in the United States:

  • Employment:

    • Studies indicate that adult autism unemployment rates are alarmingly high. Some studies show that as much as 85% of adults with autism are unemployed or underemployed.  

    • This highlights the need for tailored job training and support programs, like our Education and Employment Unit, to help individuals gain meaningful employment.

  • Social Isolation:

    • Many adults with autism experience social isolation and difficulty forming meaningful connections.  

    • Our Community Integration Unit focuses on building these connections, fostering a sense of belonging, and promoting social participation.

  • Healthcare Access:

    • Adults with autism often face barriers to accessing appropriate healthcare, including mental health services.  

    • This is compounded by the fact that many adults are undiagnosed, and do not recieve the help that they need.  

    • Our Health and Wellness Unit provides therapeutic services and support to address these needs.  

  • Independent Living:

    • Many adults with autism struggle with independent living skills.  

    • Our various units help our members to gain these skills.

Contact Information:

  • If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please contact Tammiko at tammiko@mbiclubhouse.org or 312-226-8714.