April 1st-2nd
Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism advocacy organization, today announced that the City of Houston will once again “Light It Up Blue” in honor of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd.
In 2007, the United Nations declared April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day in perpetuity. 2012 marks the fifth anniversary of World Autism Awareness Day.
Autism Speaks’ Light It Up Blue campaign, now in its third year, is a unique global initiative to help raise awareness about the growing public health concern that is autism. Iconic landmarks around the world will Light It Up Blue to show their support.
“We’re so pleased that Houston City Hall will once again shine a light on autism by Lighting It Up Blue on April 2nd,” says Carey Carver, 2012 Walk Chair. “In addition to raising awareness of autism spectrum disorders, the city’s support means so much to families dealing with the challenges of autism on a daily basis. We commend the leadership of the city of Houston for its ongoing commitment and dedication. We’re also excited about local events in honor of autism awareness month.”
Local events include:
Sunday, April 1st: MAMs House of Ice, in the Heights, will be serving up blue snow cones from 12pm-7pm and will donate 20% of the sales to Autism Speaks.
Monday, April 2nd: The Downtown Aquarium will host a Dine & Donate night. Dinners must present a flyer to secure a donation for Autism Speaks.
Monday, April 2nd: Happy Hour at Blue Bar at Brenner’s on the Bayou. For a $10 donation to Autism Speaks, guests receive complimentary hors d’eouvers, drink specials and a chance to win great raffles prizes. 5pm – 7pm
In 2011, landmark buildings around the world, from the Empire State Building to Australia’s Sydney Opera House, joined in the Light It Up Blue campaign. Homeowners who wish to show their support for World Autism Awareness Day can purchase blue light bulbs and blue lanterns at Home Depot. For more ideas on how to participate, visit www.lightitupblue.org.
