On April 2, 2008, organizations all around the world celebrated the inaugural World Autism Awareness Day. If your autism organization is planning an event for 2009 and would like to be recognized in this year's list, please click here. We welcome pictures, posters and media from your planned event as well!

ARUBA


Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Location: Aruba
Name: "Look @ Me" Walkathon for Autism
Description: CEDES, an organization for autism on the island of Aruba is having a walkathon on April 2, 2009 in celebration of World Autism Awareness Day. Our theme for the event is "Look @ me". The reason for this is to make the Aruban community aware that we have children with autism here in Aruba and that they would like to be a part of the Aruban community. Individuals with autism need to be undertsood, included and loved.
The Aruban community is not well informed about autism, but we know that after April 2, 2009 they will know much more. The Look at Me Walkathon will start at 5:00pm and starting point is The Marriot hotel going towars the Tiera del Sol Golfcourse.
Contact: Maureen Kelly, Cedes Parent Support Group Member, PR Contact for Cedes
Email: k_maureen@hotmail.com

BAHRAIN

Date of event: April 2-4
Name: Untangle Autism, Second International Conference
Location: Sheraton Hotel
Description: The Bahrain Society for Children With Behavioral & Communication Difficulties is hosting their Second International Conference, "Untangle Autism" at the Sheraton Hotel from April 2-4, 2009.

The conference is your opportunity to learn, in a plain and easy-to-understand way:
> Bio-medical and educational intervention
> Current intervention methodologies
> Resources needed for recovery, advocacy, and education to acheive a better quality of life

An investment in the future whether you are a Parent, Educator, Paraprofessional, Pediatrician, Therapist, or anyone else envolved in the life of an autistic child. Keynote speakers include: Arnold Miller, Ph.D., Connie Wong Ph.D., Dr. Ketan Patel.

To learn more about the event, download the brochure here: http://www.childbehavior.org/images/conference09brochure.pdf

Contact: The Bahrain Society for Children With Behavioral & Communication Difficulties, Alia For Early Intervention
Website: http://www.childbehavior.org
Phone: +973 17 730960
Email: autism@batelco.com.bh

BERMUDA

Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Name: Proclamation Ceremony
Location: Cabinet Office
Description: Bermuda Autism Support and Education Society has organized an official Proclamation Ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. with the Minister of Health officially declaring April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day in Bermuda and April as Autism Awareness Month.
Phone: 534-4376
E-mail: jpurvey@northrock.bm
Website: www.bermudaautism.org
Click here to view a flyer for this event.

BRAZIL


Date of Event: 2 April, 2009
Name: ADEFA – Association in Defense of Autism: Transforming Autism
Location: Praça XV,  Rio de Janeiro at 10:00am and all over Brazil
Description:The Association in Defense of Autism together with other institutions and parents of autistic children are getting together for their first Autism walk for world wide awareness of autism, stimulating the whole country to participate.
Contact: Julceli Antunes –Executive Director of ADEFA.
Phone: 55 21 2617-8994
Email: autismoadefa@gmail.com
Website: www.adefa.com.br

Date of Event: April 2nd,3rd and 4th 2009
Name: Centro Pró-Autista
Location: Hotel Travel Inn Ibirapuera – Live & Lodge - - São Paulo - SP
Description:The Centro Pró-Autista, organizer of the event, intends to update health professionals, parents and educators on the subject, and to increase their hopes regarding the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. For more informtation, see the complete schedule the event at our website. Contact: Maria Cristina Cassab
Phone: 55 11 3284.1678
Email: maria.cassab@terra.com.br  
Website: www.centroproautista.org.br       
Click here to view the flyer for this event.

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Date of Event: 2nd April 2009
Name: "Giant STEPs to Build a Brighter Future"
Location: Launching in University Brunei Darussalam Chancellor Hall.,
Description: SMARTER Brunei invites you all to attend our 2nd World Autism Awareness Day campaign in the Chancellor Hall University Brunei Darussalam where it will be officially opened by Our Honourable Minister of Health His Excellency Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi. There will be a keynote address by our invited consultant Ms Debbie Smith from Australia who would present the Giant STEPs to Build a Brighter Future. There will also be an exhibition of SMARTER's Services and facilities which is a "whole life span approach" we provide service and facilities from CRADLE to GRAVE. We have a seamless journey for our IWA into adulthood and beyond. The events will also be followed by a public Forum in the afternoon with two speakers talking of The Challenges of Adult with Autism in the community., We will continue our Awareness campaign by visiting 4 Higher Education Centres around the capital every Saturday. As the President of SMARTER and a 57 year old father of 11 year old boy, I will be running for 120 kilometers to raise funds of B$1.9 million to increase awareness of autism on 2nd May and ending my run on 3rd May. Please support us in any way you can.
Contact: Mr. Malai Hj Abdullah-Othman, President
Phone: +6738743777
Email: bjak_smarter@live.com  
Click here to view more information about proceeds for the event.

CANADA

Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Name: Piece By Piece Autism Cumberland Walk for Autism
Location: Amherst, NS, Canada
Description: Our Organization Piece By Piece Autism Cumberland is a Chapter of the Autism Society of Nova Scotia. Our Organization was opened as of Jan 11th, 2009. On WAAD April 2nd, 2009, we will be holding a walk in Amherst, NS, a BBQ will be held after the walk is completed. All proceeds will be going to our Organization for future events, and for Autism Awareness Merchandise. We are thrilled to have the 1st ever Autism Walk in this community, and plan on making this an annual event.
Contact: Tammy Chapman, Executive Director of Piece by Piece Autism Cumberland
Phone: 902-763-2442
Email: piecebypiece@eastlink.ca



Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Name: The Canadian National Autism Foundation Presents the World Autism Awareness Day Concert
Location : Studio at Hamilton Place, 1 Summers Lane - Ontario, Canada
Description: The Canadian National Autism Foundation Presents at Studio at Hamilton Place, the World Autism Awareness Day Concert
Two Shows: 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. & 9:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Hosted by Rick Wharton "Conspiracy Guy"
With Special Appearances by:
Rik Emmett
Sons of the Hammer
Victoria Boland & Andrew Rudd
Contact: Tickets available at Copps Coliseum Box Office, all ticketmaster locations, on-line at www.ticketmaster.ca or charge by phone 905-527-7666.
Website: http://www.cnaf.net/
Click here to view a poster about the event.
Click here to view organizations supporting this event and other activities. 
Click here to view Boston Pizza's promotion.



Date of Event: April 2, 2009, 8pm-midnight
Name: The Society of Artists for Autism (SAFA)
Location: The Company House, 2202 Gottingen St, Halifax, NS, Canada
Description: SAFA presents "Autism Rocks for World Autism Awareness Day!" Silent Auction and entertainment evening.
Featuring the musical stylings of:
- David Bradshaw
- Benn Ross and Seth Huntley
- Erin Costelo
- The Blown Gasket Orchestra
This event is to compliment the Nova Scotia Provincial Autism Centre's First Autistic Self-Advocacy Conference, taking place at the World Trade and Convention Centre downtown Halifax from 8:30 to 4:30.
Contact: Charlene Croft, President of SAFA
Phone: 902-406-0239
Email: info@artistsforautism.ca
Website: http://www.artistsforautism.ca 
Click here to view a poster about the event.


 
Date of event: April 2, 2009
Name: The Autism Self-Advocacy Conference: Real People Living Real Lives
Location: World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia
Description: On April 2, 2009, Nova Scotia’s autism community will celebrate World Autism Awareness Day with The Autism Self-Advocacy Conference: Real People Living Real Lives, the first conference of its kind in Canada.
     Created specifically for autistic people, but also open to their families, and those who work with and support them, Real People Living Real Lives will be held at the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax. This conference is the collaborative effort of the Autistic Self-Advocacy Council of Nova Scotia (ASAC-NS), and the Provincial Autism Centre, a privately funded non-profit organization. Cynthia Carroll, executive director of the Provincial Autism Centre, says, “This conference will offer people with autism – and the community as a whole - an opportunity to come together, to learn, to network, in a way that is innovative, informative, and supportive."
     Inspiring speakers including Montreal-based autism researcher Michelle Dawson, specially selected product and service exhibitors, and educational workshops on issues such as autistic self-advocacy, employment, and community-living will be presented in an autism-friendly environment, uniquely structured to meet the needs of conference attendees.
Contact: Robyn Bradshaw, Provincial Autism Centre
Phone: 902-446-4995
Fax: 902-446-4997
Email: rbradshaw@provincialautismcentre.ca
Website: www.provincialautismcentre.ca
Click here to view the brochure for this event



Date of event: April 2, 2009
Name: Autism, Police & First Response: Recognition and Risk Management
Location: World Trade and Convention Centre, 1800 Argyle Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Description: The Provincial Autism Centre and the Autistic Self-Advocacy Council Nova Scotia (ASAC-NS) are honoured to host this exceptional training opportunity for police and first responders. Please join us on April 2, 2009, which is internationally recognized as World Autism Awareness Day, as leading expert Dennis Debbaudt provides valuable training in autism recognition and risk management.  Research indicates that persons with developmental disabilities, including a rapidly rising autism population, are approximately seven times more likely to come in contact with law enforcement professionals than others. Police and first response professionals will meet children and adults with autism in field situations. Dennis Debbaudt's training will make these interactions safer and less stressful. The event takes place from 2:00-7:30pm and costs $50 per person; group rates may be negotiated (space is limited, register early)
Contact: Robyn Bradshaw to register
Phone: 902-446-4995
Email: rbradshaw@provncialautismcentre.ca 
Website: http://www.autismcentre.ns.ca/ 
Click here to view a poster for this event.

HONG KONG

Date of event: Friday, February 27, 2009
Name: Bridging the Gaps
Location: Cheung Kung Hai Lecture Theatre 3, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong
Description: The Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong will be organizing the World Autism Awareness Forum in Hong Kong on Feb 27, 2009. The theme of the event will be “Bridging the Gaps”. Parents of autistic children who have participated in our autism research projects and representatives from local schools serving autistic children are invited to join. Latest information on autism and research results will be presented and participants will be encouraged to share their experience in the event. Time of event: 0830am - 1745pm
Contact: Vanessa Chu, University of Hong Kong, vchu@hku.hk
Click here to view a poster about the event.

HUNGARY

Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Location: Szolnok, Hungary
Name: National Conference on Autism
Description: The Hungarian AUT-INFO Foundation organizes a national conference on the past, present, and future of education, therapy, and care of children living with ASD. Parents, teachers, child psychiatrists and neurologists will be joined by representatives of institutions providing care as well as municipal leaders who provide financial support.
Contact: Ms. Veronika Soltész
E-mail: alapitvany@aut-info.net
Website: http://www.aut-info.net
To view a summary of this conference Click Here

Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Location: Miskolc, Hungary
Name: Autism Forum for Parents and Experts
Description: The Hungarian Symbiosis Foundation organizes a community event bringing together parents, teachers, and experts to discuss the state of autism support in the Hungarian school system and sociale safety net. The event concludes with a showing of the movie Ben X, occuring simultanously in eight Hungarian cities.
Contact: Mrs. Beáta Kratkóczki Lengyel
E-mail: szimbiozis@szimbiozis.net
Website: http://www.szimbiozis.net

INDIA

Date of event: Thursday, April 2 April 2009
Name: Action For Autism, The National Centre for Autism
Location: Delhi NCR, INDIA
Description: Distribute information flyers in English and Hindi at WAAD events; Distribute Autism lapel pins, wrist bands, ribbons to dignitaries, and at events; Delegation of individuals with autism, families, and other carers, meet President, and CM; Walk for Autism with eminent individuals;The Central Board that regulates school leaving examinations has agreed to accommodations for high schools students with autism during school leaving examinations. Send all principals of Board certified schools a card with WAAD greetings, information on the circular, and a message to encourage them to support students with autism; Talk by self advocate; Inclusive jamboree with an art camp, free consultations, performances; Inform electronic media about what is happening around the country on WAAD and have them cover it
Contact: Reeta Sabharwal , Baba Tiruvalam
Website: http://www.autism-india.org



Date of event: April 2nd 2009
Name: Art for Autism & Collage of activities
Location: Bangalore, India
Description: Autism Society of India (ASI) and International Institute of Art, Culture and Democracy (IIACD) are conducting a day long event that includes:
* Art Exhibition and Sale of paintings and other creative products made by persons with autism;
* Panel Discussion on ‘Autism in India – Critical Interventions in Policy and Practice’. Panelists include Government Heads, Doctor, School Head, Parent Advocate, Head-National Parent Association, District Governor – Rotary;
* Stories and poetry reading authored by persons with autism,
* Film screening,
*PSA screening.
* This is followed by an evening program where doctors and researchers are addressing the gathering on “Autism Research- Insights and Discussion’. We hope to create maximum awareness through this program.
* Promotional materials: brochures, posters, banner, button, bookmarks will also be available.
Contact: Autism Society of India
Website: www.autismsocietyofindia.org  

Date of Event: April 2nd - April 30th
Name:Aikya
Location:New No. 7, Old no. 1/1,
Bhagirathi ammal Street Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai 600 028
Description: AIKYA - Centre To Integrate the Different, is organising the following events on April 2nd and through the month of April,2009 as part of WAAD.

1. 2nd world Autism Awareness day at German Hall, Chennai on April 2nd whre there wll be a panel discussion on : "Autism In India - policies & programmes", honouring parents of children with Autism and teachers dedicated to teaching children with Autism, talent show of students with Autism 2. Free Yoga and mediatation class for parents on 9th April 2009

3. Parental training programme on management of behaviour problems and sensory integration at Coimbatore district, TAmil nadu on 12th April 2009.
4.Release of pamphlets on Autism and Autism bands 5. Live interview on Autism in All India Radio, Chennai. Ms.parvathy Viswanath, will be interviewed lice broad cast.
Phone: 2493 8443 / 2461 2668 / 2499 3892 / 9444 960643 / 98400 57975
Email: info@aikya.org
Website: http://www.aikya.org  

JAPAN

Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Name: Seminars for World Autism Awareness Day (Japan PDD Awareness week) 　　　　　
Location : Aichi pref, Gifu pref and Shizuoka pref, Japan
Description: The NPO Asperger Society Japan is hosting a day long series of seminars for autism to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day.

Aichi seminar (Aichi Children's Health & Medical center)
10:00-15:00, a seating capacity of 100, free of charge,
Keynote speakers: Michiko Ishikawa & Toshiro Sugiyama

Gifu seminar (Fureai Kaikan of Gifu pref) Time: 9:30-12:00, a seating capacity of 100, free of charge. Keynote speakers: Satoshi Beppu & Kazuhiko Nakamura

A relay seminar from Nagoya to Hamamatsu:
> Nagoya (Aichi Prefectual Sports Hall) Time: 9:30-11:30, seating capacity of 100, charge is 1000yen for an adult, 500yen for a child (with workbook)

> Toyohashi (Toyohashi Civil Centre) Time: 14:00-16:00, seating capacity of 100, charge is 1000yen for an adult, 500yen for a child (with workbook).
Keynote speakers: Masatsugu Tsujii & Akemi Hotta

> Hamamatsu (Actcity Hamamatsu, a training interchange center ) Time: 18:30-20:00, seating capacity of 250, free of charge, over 16 years old.
Keynote speakers: Masatsugu Tsujii, Keiko Iwata

Contact: info@as-japan.jp
Website: http://www.as-japan.jp

LEBANON

Date of event: April 2nd 2009 and throughout the month of April
Name: World Autism Awareness Day
Location: Lebanese Autism Society premises and other locations
Description: On the occasion of the World Autism Day, April 2nd, the Lebanese Autism Society is organizing several activities as follows:
-MEDIA COVERAGE ON AUTISM:
  *TV shows, radio, newspapers, magazines during the month of April 2009.

-MUSICAL SHOW to be attended by children with autism at our premises, on April 2, 2009

-CONFERENCE about Autism at the American University of Beirut Issam Fares Hall, on April 2, 2009 at 5pm, organized by the medical school at AUB.

-KARAOKE NIGHT at "Bound" organized by "Good Karma" featuring 'Sing for Autism' theme, on April 22, 2009.

-BRUNCH at Metropolitan Hotel, April 30th.

Contact: Arwa El Amine Halawi or Caroline De Albergaria Arbadji
Email: autismlb@hotmail.com
Phone: 00 961 1 44 99 88/ 00961 1 44 33 66
Website: www.autismlebanon.org
 

 MALAYSIA

Date of event: April 23, 2009
Name: Autism in Adolescense
Location: P O Box 645 88858
Tanjung Aru Sabah East Malaysia
366. Jalan Saga, Off Jalan Tuaran,
88400 KOTA KINABALU
Description: Every year, we promote awareness on AUTISM in August, but this year, we will with others promote awareness on AUTISM in the month of April by -
1. Running talks in the rural areas of Sabah (part of out OUTREACH work) on AUTISM ;
2. Organising a seminar - 23 April 2009 - "Autism in Adolescense" ;
3. For the whole month of April , will be sending short messages out in the local newspaper - to help the community understand AUTISM more.
Contact: Jacqueline Lingham
Email: childsabah@yahoo.com
Phone: 088 385 761
Website: www.childsabah.com

 MEXICO

Date of Event: Sunday, March 29
Name: Autism Awareness Walk
Location: Clemente Orozco's Park, Guadalajara, México
Description: Fundacion Hace is hosting the first autism awareness walk on Sunday March 29th. There are also other plans for another walk in Mexico City on the same day. The Walk starts at 9:00AM from the Clemente Orozco's Park, beside Los Arcos at Vallarta Avenue, 200 M from Minerva Circle.
Contact: info@fundacionhace.org
Website: http://fundacionhace.org/fun/index.php


Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Name: Caminemos por el Autismo 2009
Location: Circuito Reforma - Gandhi, Cidudad de México
Description: You are invited to join six local autism organizations on April 2, 2009 in the First Walk for Autism 2009. A free event for the whole family, come together for autism on World Autism Awareness Day.
Contact: To register call: 5595 8025 / 5595 84 65 ext. 104
Website: http://www.clima.org.mx/portada.html 
Click here to view a poster about the event.

NETHERLANDS

Date of Event: April 4, 2009
Name: Autism-Do-Day (Auti-Doe-Dag)
Location: Hellendoorn Adventure Park (Avonturenpark Hellendoorn)
Description: On Saturday, April 4, a special day will be organized by Adventure Park Hellendoorn and the Dutch Society for Autism/Nederlandse Vereniging voor Autisme (NVA). The park will only be accessible to people with autism and their families and particularly suitable for families with children aged 3-13 years.
Also, Jelle's knikkerbaan (www.knikkerbaan.nl) will be exhibited at the park. Tickets are available only in advance and online ordering through Adventure Park Hellendoorn (http://www.hellendoorn.nu)
Contact: Marjolijn Busman
Email: Marjolijn@tprf.nl  
Website: www.autisme.nl  
Click Here to view a poster about the event.

NEW ZEALAND

Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Name: Multicoloured Mayhem Day
Location: Throughout New Zealand
Description: Autism New Zealand Inc has invited all schools around the country to hold a ‘Multicoloured Mayhem Day’ on April 2, a day when students and teachers can wear whatever colours they like – i.e. Dress in Multicolour (every bit of clothing is a different colour) or Dress like a Rainbow. Branches have also been asked to participate by dressing up and holding an open day inviting members and contacts to come in and find out more information about autism.
Contact: Bobbi Oliver, National Fundraising Manager, Autism New Zealand Inc
Phone: +64 3 339 2627
Email: bobbi@autismnz.org.nz
Website: http://www.autismnz.org.nz/


Date of event: May 3, 2009
Name: Walk/Run 4 Autism Awareness
Location: Christchurch, New Zealand
Description: Autism New Zealand Inc. Canterbury Branch is excited to announce the first annual 'Walk/Run 4 Autism Awareness'. The 2.5km, 5km and 10km fun run/walk will be at Hagley Park, 3 May 2009 starting at 9.30am. The World Autism Awareness Day is in April and we hope to raise the awareness in our local community. The Fun Run/Walk will include family entertainment for all to enjoy, beverages and food as well as information booths on available services from local community agencies. You can register either on the day of the event between 8.00am and 9.15am or before by visiting www.autismnz.org.nz/funrun.php.
Contact: Emma Healey (Secretary)
Email: funrun@autismnz.org.nz
Website: http://www.autismnz.org.nz/FunRun.php
Click Here  to view a poster about the event.

NIGERIA


Date of Event: April 1-4, 2009
Location: 27, Libreville Street, Off Aminu Kano Crescent, Wuse 2, Abuja, Nigeria
Description: The National Society for Autism Nigera will host a variety of events the week of World Autism Awareness Day including:
- April 1: Sensitization Walk/Rally aimed at creating awareness on autism. To achieve this, volunteer teachers, students, social workers, care givers and parents will be engaged in a walk in some of the major streets of Abuja. 
- April 2: In the morning, an open lecture will be organized for the general public. This is to educate the public on diagnosis, early intervention and how to support families with Autism. This lecture will equip the medical practitioners, teachers; care givers and the public on ways the can help children living with Autism cope better. In the evening, a Goodwill Ambassador Award Night dinner will take place where we will launch a documentary titled LIVING WITH AUTISM IN NIGERIA . The documentary will feature some families (of different social classes, of different tribes etc and their experience with diagnosis and treatment (as compared to the rest of the world). People will be randomly interviewed in the streets in the cities and in the villages and towns and the question will be 'Do you know what Autism is?' This documentary will be aired on National TV that night before the network news and hopefully on other TV stations.
- April 3: Musical concert fundraiser to raise awareness and funds will take place at the Transcorp Hilton Congress Hall at 3:30pm in Abuja, Nigeria.
Contact: National Society for Autism - Nigeria
Email: info@societyforautismnigeria.org
Website: www.societyforautismnigeria.org

PHILIPPINES


Date of Event:

ROMANIA

Date of Event: Throughout the year and April 2, 2009
Name: The National Campaign “Autism does not disappear at 18!” & Creativity Contest "Left is right! A youngster with autism - classmate of mine?"
Location: Timisoara, Romania
Description: Pentru Voi Foundation provides social services and militates for the rights of persons with intellectual disabilities in Romania. In December 2008 we started the campaign ”Autism does not disappear at 18!” which aims to develop specialized support services for persons diagnosed with autism in their childhood.

On WAAD April 2, 2009, we will be organizing the contest “Left is Right!” in Timisoara. We are thrilled to have the 1st ever Autism Creativity Contest in this community, and plan on making this an annual event. Further information about the project and contest at www.pentruvoi.ro
Contact: Laila ONU, Executive Director of “Pentru Voi” Foundation
Phone: +40 256 228 062
Email: pentruvoi@pentruvoi.ro
Website: www.pentruvoi.ro

Please Click Here to view a poster (.pdf) about the "Autism does not disappear at 18!" campaign.
Click Here to view a poster (.pdf) about the "Left is Right" campaign.

SLOVAKIA

Date of event: April – May 2009
Name: Information Campaign throughout Slovakia
Location: Bratislava and regional cities of Slovakia
Description: Information Campaign to WAAD, New project called Open the Doors to Autism:
- March 26: Press Conference
- April 1: Opera Performance “Madam Butterfly” in the Slovak National Theatre – Beginning of the Campaign – Opening Ceremony of the WAAD in Slovakia, with the participation of the First Lady of the SR: Mrs. Silvia Gasparovicova
- April 1: Opening of Art Exhibition of an autistic artist Ms. Miska Batelova in Nitra
- April 2: Waterball Day in Bratislava, followed by similar activities throughout the regional cities of Slovakia during April and May 2009
- April 2: Theatre Performance in Martin called 1+1=3
- May 22: Information Campaign in the streets – public collection of donations
Contact: SPOSA Slovakia (Society for the Help of People with Autism), Nam.1.maja 1, 810 00 Bratislava
Website: www.sposa.sk
Email: sposa@changenet.sk 
Click here to view a flyer for the events.

TURKEY 

Date of Event: April 2nd 2009 and throughout the month of April
Name: World Autism Awareness Day
Location: Various locations
Description: On the occasion of the World Autism Awareness Day, April 2nd, Tohum Autism Foundation and Autism Platform of Turkey is organizing several activities as follows:

•        Press Conference

•        All supporting national and local radios will play a promotion jingle about World Autism Awareness Month.

•        Posters and brochures will be distributed all over the country (İstanbul, Ankara, İzmir, Bursa, Edirne, Tekirdağ) to promote World Autism Awareness Month.

•        Media Coverage: Interviews and news on TV, newspapers, magazines during the month of April 2009.

•        Tohum Autism Foundation will be hosting an Autism Awareness Day event at Istinye Park shopping center. The event will begin with an opening ceremony at 3 p.m, on Saturday, April 4. There will be an information stand, an art exhibition with artwork created by children with autism and a puzzle workshop. Art exhibition will include handmade stoves made with special interest of an autistic child and many paintings. Puzzle workshop will be completed by visitors to represent our coming together for autism. Visitors will be able to write their own thoughts about autism on each piece they will add.

•        Tohum Autism Foundation will be hosting an Autism Awareness Day event at Profilo Shopping Center. The event will begin with an opening ceremony April 14. There will be an information stand, an art exhibition with artwork created by children with autism and a puzzle workshop. Art exhibition will include handmade stoves made with special interest of an autistic child and many paintings. Puzzle workshop will be completed by visitors to represent our coming together for autism. Visitors will be able to write their own thoughts about autism on each piece they will add.

Other information stands: 2-5 April, AKMERKEZ shopping center, 2-5 April PALLADIUM shopping Center, 2 April CAPITOL shopping center, 4-5 April OPTIMUM shopping center.

•        TODEV will conduct a special event between 10 a.m and 3 p.m, on Friday, April 3 at Kadıköy Halk Eğitim Merkezi, İstanbul.
Concert: Presented by autistic children music group.
Lectures: Dr. Bülent Madi –Neurologist/Recent advances in autism treatment, Elmira Elgezdi -Social Worker/Protection of rights of people with autism, Mustafa Akyüzlüer - Music Teacher/Observations and sharing of music education.

Phone : (+90) (212) 248 94 30
Fax: (+90) (212) 248 94 36
Contact email: ozgul.gurel@tohumotizm.org.tr  
Website: www.tohumotizm.org.tr 

UNITED KINGDOM

Date of Event: Ongoing through April
Name: Stand Up for Autism
Location: Online at www.waad.org.uk
Description: To mark the United Nations' World Autism Awareness Day, nineteen UK charities have come together to generate a greater understanding of autism and call for people to Stand Up for Autism.

You can Stand up for Autism too, by uploading your photo and message - and help us create a truly global message for World Autism Awareness Day. If you are touched by autism – be it as someone with autism, a parent, relative, carer or friend - and have a lovely photograph to share with the world, send it to us and we will include it in the gallery. See our You Tube site where celebrities and supporters are Standing up for Autism.
Contact: Philippa Stannard
Email: philippa.stannard@autismspeaks.org.uk
Website: www.waad.org.uk



Date of Event: Saturday, March 28th 2009, 13.30
Name: “Open Your Eyes to Autism" for World Autism Awareness Day
Location: London
Description: March and Rally. Bagpipers will lead us off at 2pm from Temple Place (Behind Temple Tube Station) via Victoria Embankment and Parliament Street to Whitehall, Delegated Parents will hand Mandates into Downing Street then onto rally in Trafalgar Square.
This will be the largest demonstration of support for all children and adults with autism throughout the UK. We will join in a call for: Improving services for autistic children and adults; Recognition of the world autism pandemic; Better educational services; Valid Research to establish cause; More support for autistic adults; More help with the transition from child to adult, And much more.
Contact: info@openyoureyestoautism.com
Website: http://openyoureyestoautism.com




Date of Event: Ongoing
Name: Talk About Autism
Location: Online at www.talkaboutautism.org.uk
Description: TreeHouse is the national charity for autism education in the UK. Established in 1997 by a group of parents, TreeHouse campaigns for better autism education nationally and runs a school for children and young people with autism. In celebration of World Autism Awareness Day 2009, TreeHouse will launch a brand new information and social networking website called talkaboutautism.org.uk.

Sponsored by TalkTalk, the site will:
• provide expert information and advice about autism and how to navigate the education system, covering key times such as diagnosis, admission to an appropriate school, the statementing process, tribunal and exclusion
• host a moderated online community for all parents and carers of children with autism to share experiences, ideas and support.
Contact: For more information and to register please go to www.talkaboutautism.org.uk




Date of Event: March 27-April 2, 2009
Name: The Great BAS Challenge
Location: Reading, United Kingdom
Description: We are planning a week of activities, organised by members, culminating in a balloon race on April 2nd in Reading. We have challenged our members to run an event to raise awareness of autism and raise money too, starting on March 27th and running through to April 2nd. On that day, we are releasing 1,000 balloons at 1.30 pm in Prospect Park, Reading, which can be bought for £1.00 each.

Berkshire Autistic Society was set up in 1990 by parents of children with autism, autism-related problems and challenging behaviours. We now have over 500 members including individuals, families and professionals.
The main aims of the Society are: to provide a comprehensive advice and information service for parents and professionals; to offer support to parents and carers via monthly meetings and social events; to improve education, respite care, leisure activities and other services across Berkshire; to offer support for adults with autistic spectrum disorders and their families.
Contact: Kate Manton
Email: contact@autismberkshire.org.uk
Website: www.autismberkshire.org.uk


Date of event: April 2, 2009
Name: Open Day at the School
Location: The Jigsaw School, Building 21 Dunsfold Park, Stovolds Hill, Nr Cranleigh, Surrey, GU6 8TB
Description: We are one of around 10 schools in the UK offering Applied Behaviour Analysis as a teaching methodology to children ages 4-19 years of age. We are based in Surrey and will be holding a local ‘open day’ event on 2nd April at our school. Please come visit on World Autism Awareness Day to learn more!
Contact: The Jigsaw Cabas School
Email: info@jigsawschool.co.uk
Website: www.jigsawschool.co.uk




Date of event: April 2, 2009
Name: Autism Awareness Day in Doncaster
Location: Bullcroft Memorial Hall, Carcroft
Description: To mark World Autism Awareness Day, Little Rainbows, Doncaster Autistic Society and Autism Plus are hosting an Autism Awareness Day in Doncaster on Thursday 2nd April 2009. The event will be held at Bullcroft Memorial Hall, Carcroft 9.30AM till 2.30PM. The purpose of this event is to celebrate the diversity of autism, but also to raise awareness of the difficulties faced by families affected by the condition. The day will include presentations by Luke Bearden and Christine Breakey, who are both professionals working in the field of Autism. There will also be a number of information stands, highlighting the support service available in Doncaster, and a buffet lunch. The cost of the day is £10 for professionals and £5 for parents (to cover the cost of the buffet). If you would like to attend please return the slip and payment. We look forward to seeing you.
Contact: Louisa Cheshire or Amanda Hoff 
Phone: 01302 768847 /   01302352060
Email: enquiries@littlerainbows.com  
Website: www.littlerainbows.com 
Click here to view a poster about the event



Date of Event: April 1-3
Name: Listen To Me!
Locations: April 1st: The Coachman Hotel, Darlington; April 2nd: Stonebridge Golf Club, Coventry; April 3rd: Easthampstead Baptist Church, Bracknell
Description: In the spirit of listening to people with Autism Spectrum conditions, we will be holding six events in three cities in celebration of UN World Autism Awareness Day 2009. The events aim to look at the challenges and positive side of Autism Spectrum conditions by hearing from two 'experts by experience', Dean Beadle and Thomas Madar.

The purpose of the events are for people to hear about the experience of life on the Autism Spectrum in order that we can support people accordingly. The idea is that we need to have a strong understanding of autism before we can begin to raise both awareness and support. Our approach is to respect people for their differences and to listen to people with autism on how best to support them instead of deciding what we think they need.

There are two events on each day, one at 10am and one at 2pm. To attend an event please contact us. The events are open to everyone and are free of charge.
Contact: Lisa Hopkins - Director of Specialist Development
Email: lisa.hopkins@dimensions-uk.org
Website: www.dimensions-uk.org www.adepta.org.uk

UNITED STATES


Date of event: March 28, April 4, April 11
Name: Whats In Your Lunch Box (WIYLBOX) presents "F.E.E.D. the Kids – The Autism Spectrum Disorder Collaborative"
Location: CSUN, Northridge, CA  Description: F.E.E.D. the Kids is a 3-day, 'no cost' event for families from underserved communities and living with autism to overcome barriers and challenges in feeding their children; program provides education, training, information and resources on Diet, Nutrition and Adaptive Physical Activity to support the health and development of children. (Feed*Evaluate*Educate*Demonstrate ) Program dates: March 28, April 4, April 11. Contact: Deborah Tucker - Registration Required
Email: info@whatsinyourlunchbox.net
Website: http://www.whatsinyourlunchbox.net


Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Name: What's In Your Lunch Box Celebrates "F.E.E.D. the Kids" for World Autism Awareness Day
Location: Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank, CA
Description: On WAAD, April 2, 2009 WIYLBOX will host a Cocktail Reception and Silent Auction at Warner Bros. Studios, Burbank, with families and professionals, businesses and the Autism Community of stakeholders to honor their support and recognition of the FEED Collaborative 3-Day Event mentioned above. WIYLBOX collaborators include USC UCEDD Children's Hospital Los Angeles, The Marilyn Magaram Center for Food Science, Nutrition & Dietetics, and The Center of Achievement Through Adaptive Physical Activities, California State University, Northridge. Donations will be used to support the program's scheduled events.
Contact: Deborah Tucker, CEO
Email: info@whatsinyourlunchbox.net
Website: http://www.whatsinyourlunchbox.net





Date of event: April 26, 2009
Name: 7th Annual Race for Autism
Location: Lewes, Delaware, USA
Description: In celebration of Autism Awareness Month, the Lower Delaware Autism Foundation invites you to participate in the 7th Annual Race for Autism. This year’s race is set for Sunday, April 26th in Lewes at Cape Henlopen High School. Registration is currently available online by visiting http://www.active.com/event_detail.cfm?event_id=1678416 . Registering online is safe and easy! We encourage you to try it if you have not done so before ...If you need help – contact Mary Green at mgreen@ldaf.com  or 644-3410. Or, if you would like to mail in your registration, download this year’s Race for Autism brochure please visit http://ldaf.com/events/race2009/info.htm . Like our 5K, Kiddie Fun Run, and the 1/2 Marathon, the WALK EVENT is GROWING and LDAF ENCOURAGES you to form Walk Teams! Get all of your neighbors, co-workers, friends and family together and walk as a team. It’s a lot of fun and the energy is very powerful when groups who all share the same passion for the cause walk TOGETHER. Set a goal for yourself so you have something to strive towards and track your success online.
Contact: Mary Green
Phone: 302-644-3410
Email: mgreen@ldaf.com
Website: www.ldaf.com

Date of Event: April 1-30, 2009
Name: The Academies Inc. celebrates Autism Awareness Month
Location: Tampa, Florida
Description:The Academies Inc. is a public, charter school dedicated to the educational needs of students with identified learning and learning related disabilities. The Academies consist of four schools: Hope Preparatory Academy, K-5th grade, Quest Middle School, 6th-8th grade, Pepin Academy, 9th-12th grade, and Tampa Transitional School of Excellence, after 12th grade, two or more intensive years of employment skills training.

This year the academies are very proud to join the World Autism Awareness Day campaign. The staff and student body will be taking part in a number of activities, April 1-30, designed to promote awareness and understanding of this developmental disability that affects so many individuals in our communities. Our goal for this year is to have our students and staff become aware and distinguish between autism facts and myths, and work their way towards the development of strategies that will be useful in the classroom environment.

Among the many activities planned for Autism Awareness month we have Sensory Centers activities to be conducted by a number of community guests, presentation for our staff by a local autism consultant, autism related art projects as well as displays and dissemination of information to parents, teachers and students of all ages.
Contact: M. Ferlita, The Academies, Pepin Academy, Tampa, Florida
Email: mferlita@theacademies.us
Website: http://www.theacademies.us/



Date of event: April 2, 2009
Name: Broadway Christian Church of Mattoon, Illinois celebrates World Autism Awareness Day
Location: Mattoon, Illinois
Description: In celebration of WAAD, events will take place all day on April 2nd celebrating our children with autism. Join us for the following events:
***12:00-1:00pm: Public reading of "Rules", a book written by Cynthia Lord about a boy who has autism. Presented by Mattoon Middle Chool Reading Club. Free books for anyone who attends!
***12:00-7:00pm: Autism and Art Showcase, Artwork will be displayed from children and youth who have autism throughout the East Central Illinois Area. 
***6:00-7:00pm: In the Hand of God Worship Service - Intimate and uplifting music selections, led by Worship Leader Todd Zastrow, his wife Kyla and Julia Boyd, all parents of children with autism. "I am the Child you Love", a piece inspired by Jacob Boyd, a boy with atism, will be shared. 
Contact: Julia Boyd
Phone: 217-273-4793
Email: prayersforautism@oneof94.org 
Click here to view a flyer about the event.  



Date of Event: April 16, 2009
Name: Voices of the Spectrum
Location: White River Christian Church, 1685 N. 10th St.
Noblesville, Indiana 46060
Description: Hamilton Country Autism Support Group, Autism Advocates of Indiana and the Autism Society of America Indiana  present "Voices of the Spectrum". Tweens, teens & young adults on the spectrum speak about their life and experiences. Event featuring: Mayor John Ditslear –Opening Address; Art Display by Kathleen Dugan; and Pottery Display by Sean Gray. Our goal is to provide autism awareness to our community - parents, grandparents, teachers, therapists, doctors, schools, neighbors, churches, and others. Please bring a friend, neighbor or co-worker! The event is FREE!
Contact: For more information, contact Jane Grimes, President-hcsg.org
Phone: 317-403-6705
Email: janegrimes@hcasg.org
Website: www.hcasg.org

Date of events: April 1, 2009 and throughout April
Name: DANSON: The Extraordinary Discovery of an Autistic Child’s Innermost Thoughts and Feelings
Location: Barnes & Noble Bookstores Nationwide
Description: Come celebrate the nationwide launch of the book "DANSON: The Extraordinary Discovery of an Autistic Child's Innermost Thoughts and Feelings." Written by 9 year old Danson Wambela Wamuba who is non-verbal and autistic, and his mother Michele Pierce Burns, this new book offers a window into the inner world of a child with autism through poems, stories, and “conversations.” Please check out our website for book reading events that will take place throughout Autism Awareness Month across the country.
Contact: Michele Pierce Burns
Website: http://www.dansonsbook.com/index.php

Date of event: Thursday, April 2, 2009
Name: Denville Rotary Club's Meeting
Location: Rockaway River Country Club, 39 Pocono Road, Denville, N.J.
Description: The speakers will be Stasia Amenta, BCBA, and Charles DiPietro, a parent of a child with autism.
Contact: George Hrobuchak, Program Coordinator
Email: GHrobs@aol.com
Phone: 973-625-1449

Date of Event: April 2, 2009
Name of Event:The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation
Location: Ridgewood and Edgewater, New Jersey
Description: The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) National Autism Organization. The mission of The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation is to develop and award grants to programs that benefit adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. We will be kicking off Autism Awareness Month with WHOLE FOODS MARKET.  Whole Foods will donate 5% of all sales to our mission. Please plan on doing your shopping on April 2nd, and stock up on all you favorite items to benefit programs we develop and support on farmsteads throughout the United States
TOLL FREE: 877-444-1149
FAX:775-243-9847
WEB: http://www.djfiddlefoundation.org
E-MAIL: info@djfiddlefoundation.org

Date of event: April 2, 2009
Name: Autism Speaks to Celebrate Second Annual World Autism Awareness Day
Location: New York, NY
Description: Autism Speaks, the world’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, marked the second annual World Autism Awareness Day with a series of events on April 2, 2009. Autism Speaks co-founders started off the day ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange with other families affected by autism.

Later that morning at the United Nations, artist Yoko Ono unveiled “Promise”, a unique piece of art in which a larger work is broken apart into smaller pieces, that she created especially for World Autism Awareness Day and Autism Speaks. The 67 pieces, to be auctioned off for fundraising online at http://www.charitybuzz.com/yoko  symbolizes the coming together of society around children with autism, and the unfinished work of the world in finding the causes and cure for autism.

Date of events: April 1-30, 2009
Name: Beyond the Limits, An Autism Resource Connection celebrates World Autism Awareness Day and April as Autism Awareness Month
Location: Hendersonville, Tennessee
Description: Beyond the Limits, An Autism Resource Connection will host several events throughout the month of April to celebrate both World Autism Awareness Day and Autism Awareness Month. Please see below for a complete listing of activities:

Date: April 2, 2009
Name: Celebrate WAAD at Chick-fil-A
Time: 5pm – 8pm
Location: 1033 Glenbrook Way in Hendersonville, TN
Description: Invite friends, family & co-workers to be a part of the fun and festivities. Autism memorabilia available for donation. Proceeds to benefit Beyond the Limits, An Autism Resource Connection.*

Date: April 18, 2009
Name: Balloon Launch
Time: 10 am
Location: Memorial Park in Hendersonville, TN
Description: For our autism friends & family members, join us as we “launch” a display of balloons reflecting compassion, inclusion and the hope we fee for them.
Cost: A $2 minimum donation

Date: April 18, 2009
Name: 2nd Annual Walk Beyond the Limits for Autism
Time: 8:30 am
Location: Memorial Park in Hendersonville, TN
Description: For information call 615-870-7842 or email Walk@autismresourceconnection.com or go to www.active.com.
Proceeds to benefit Beyond the Limits, An Autism Resource Connection.*
Contact: Beyond the Limits, 29 Industrial Park Dr.,
Hendersonville, TN 37075 Phone: 615-870-7842

Date: April 1 – 30, 2009
Name: Autism Awareness Literature Distribution
Location: Martin Curtis Public Library
140 Saundersville Rd, Hendersonvile, TN 37075
Description: Free Information about Autism Spectrum Disorders and the mission and services of Beyond the Limits, An Autism Resource Connection* will be available throughout the month.
*Beyond the Limits, An Autism Resource Connection is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and a registered Tennessee charitable org. Funds raised will go to the Monetary Grant Fund to help defray the cost of autism treatments. 

Click here to view the Mayor of Hendersonville, TN Proclamation for WAAD
Click here to read a Hendersonville Standard Newspaper Article about WAAD

Contact: Jamie Balog
Email: jamie@autismresourceconnection.com
Website: www.autismresourceconnection.com



Date of event: April 26, 2009
Name: Hoa Aloha Autism Awareness Bowling Event
Location: Sunset Bowl Entertainment Center, Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA
Description: Good Friend, Inc., is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating autism awareness, teaching acceptance of differences, and fostering empathy for elementary-aged students among their typically-developing peers. We are excited to host our first event in honor of World Autism Awareness Day! Teams of 4-6 bowlers (families welcome!) register for a lane, collect pledges (optional), and come dressed in their Hawaiian best (also optional) for an afternoon of family fun, from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Snacks, beverages, shoe rental, and two games per team member are included in the $100 team registration fee. Space is limited, so request your registration form now! All proceeds will go back into programs promoting our mission.
Contact: Denise Schamens
Phone: 262-391-1369
Email: denise@goodfriendinc.com
Website: www.goodfriendinc.com