We are thrilled to announce the upcoming Autism Awareness Event, brought to you by a partnership between the Chillicothe Community Fire Protection District and Blue Ridge Community Farm. This special event, initiated by local firefighter John Gardner, is set to take place on April 27th and promises to be a day filled with education, connection, and support.
A Personal Mission: John Gardner, an autistic individual and dedicated firefighter, has spearheaded this event out of his passion for fostering connections between neurodivergent individuals and the broader community. With unwavering dedication, John has worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life.
Community Collaboration: Jennifer Gustafson and Tyler Millar, fellow firefighters, have joined forces with John to organize this year's event. Together, they have rallied support from the local community and beyond, ensuring that the event will be a resounding success.
Informative Outreach: The event will feature informative resources provided by the Chillicothe Police Department and AMT (Advanced Medical Transport), including valuable insights and strategies for supporting autistic individuals in emergencies. They will be available to engage with attendees and their loved ones, offering guidance and support.
Vendor Fair: One of the highlights of the event will be a vendor fair showcasing businesses owned by individuals on the autism spectrum. These businesses will have the opportunity to showcase their products and services, with 100% of the profits going directly to them. You can continue to shop for goods from these business owners at The Picket Fence Foundation in Chillicothe. The Picket Fence's gift shop is an Ability Marketplace featuring beautiful products made by children & adults with disabilities from around the country.
Sensory-Friendly Space: Recognizing the diverse needs of individuals with autism, a sensory-friendly space will be available throughout the event. This quiet and calming area will provide attendees with a place to relax and recharge as needed.
Community Support: Lunch will be generously provided by the Chillicothe Community Firefighters Association, ensuring that all attendees are well-nourished and ready to participate fully in the day's activities.
Join Us! We invite you to join us for this meaningful and impactful event as we come together to raise awareness, build connections, and celebrate the strengths of individuals on the autism spectrum. Your presence and support will help us create a more inclusive and understanding community for all. We look forward to seeing you there on April 27th!
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