Page 45 - District 20-K1 Kings & Queens Fall Edition November 2021

November 2021 Vol IX No. 2
District 20-K1 Happenings

AUTISM PROJECT
Chair: Lion Lucina Clark
Co-Chair: Lion Eleanor Smith

Why Autism?
There are many deserving causes, each one crying out for help. As Lions, we are here to serve.
And whatever difference we can make, let’s make it. Kindness matters and we care! Our focus is not only
the child on the spectrum, but also the parents who deal with that child daily. How are they coping and
how can Lions show kindness and care about their well-being as well?
The Autism Committee is ready for the challenge and seek your support.
Lions can make life brighter for children with ASD and their parents.
Imagine your life as a parent who must take care of a differently abled child with autism.
What type of support is available?
A child with autism faces many problems interacting with others because of impaired communication
skills, restricted interests in a world daunted by sensory overload from ordinary sights and sounds.
That’s what life with autism is often like.

Statistics showed that ASD affected 1 in 54 births (CDC, 2020) and the number continues to grow.
Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability (CDC, 2020)
Signs of autism are generally clear before a child is 3 years old and are characterized by the five major
internationally recognized red flags for autism, which are:

1. Does not babble or coo by 12 months of age
2. Does not gesture (point, wave or gasp) by 12 months
3. Does not say single words by 16 month
4. Does not say 2-word phrases on his own (rather than just repeating what someone
says) by 24 months
5. Loss of ANY language or social skill at ANY age.

Currently, there is no single known cause or cure for autism. However, recent research has identified
links to genetics, brain structure and environmental impacts. It is important to note that ASD is not caused
by an individual’s upbringing or social circumstance.

Now, what can we do to brighten the lives of these families?

The Autism Committee is suggesting these ideas:
~ Care packages for the parents
~ Holiday cheers to the family
~ Walk for Autism
~ Participation / Volunteerism in Special Olympics
~ Forum / Discussion about Autism

Lions, we can do this together:
KINDNESS MATTERS AND WE CARE