Community Corner
The Arc of Loudoun Raises Autism Awareness
An event at Paxton Campus kicked off autism awareness month and included family fun and a performance at the Tally Ho Theater.
"Friendship" was the theme at the Paxton Campus Sunday as family and friends of the Arc School of Loudoun came out to support to autism awareness month.
"Most everyone knows someone who has autism, but what does that mean? How can they help? Well, everyone can be a friend and support the families," said Jennifer Lassiter, Executive Director of The Arc of Loudoun, a 501(c)(3) organization that provides direct services to children and adults with disabilities and their families.
Lassiter said it is hard to define autism, but the more people talk about it, the more people will understand it. She added that one common factor with autism is that many people have trouble making friends.
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"We want to encourage friendships," she said.
The event – a collaboration between the Arc of Loudoun and Autism Speaks – started with an educational walk around the Paxton Campus led by Tammy Goddard, the campus support coordinator.
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On the walk, Goddard emphasized facts about autism and led the group to see Puzzle Piece, a musical about autism, at the Tally Ho Theatre in Leesburg.
The day also included a visit from Loudoun Hounds mascot Fetch, McGruff Safety Dog, a moon bounce and more.
