The Autism Initiative 2015 is set for Saturday, Feb. 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the FAU Lifelong Learning Center in Jupiter, presented by the Autism Society Palm Beach/Martin County.
The mini-conference, in its second year, features numerous topics that approach autism in its many stages of the spectrum with nationally renowned speakers and local experts. The event is free, with a $25 fee for the all-new Autism Impact Awards luncheon at the Abacoa Country Club, just across the street.
“The speakers and topics we are presenting at this year’s event really focuses on all aspects and stages of the autism spectrum,” said Terri Neil, Autism Society Palm Beach/Martin County president and parent of an autistic child. “The ‘Bright Not Broken’ keynote is one of the most important sessions parents and educators in the community need to attend, as it screams with statistics and information for those who are dually diagnosed. Giftedness and autism is more common than you think, and these kids, which is my child, typically fall through the cracks with limited services available for them.”
New this year is the Autism Impact Awards Luncheon. This portion of the day is $25 and includes a three-course luncheon celebrating those in the community who have done an outstanding job advocating for autism. In addition to the luncheon and the keynote address, there will be many other educational sessions.
The Autism Initiative begins at 8:30 a.m. with coffee and donuts at the FAU Lifelong Learning Center at FAU’s Jupiter Campus, located at 5353 Parkside Drive. For more information, visit www.autismsocietypbm.org or call (561) 389-6671.
