Autism Awareness Month

April marks World Autism Month and there are several ways coming up to celebrate locally and learn more about this disorder that impacts so many across the globe.

On Saturday, April 19 at 2:30 p.m., Perfect Piece of the Puzzle is hosting an educational workshop called “Understanding Neurodiversity 101.” The workshop will take place at Far Rockaway Library (1637 Central Ave.). Attendees can learn about neurodiversity, get an overview of Autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities and more, learn about some of the common misconceptions and how to show support. Register at https://givebutter.com/DD_Neuro101

On Saturday, April 26 at 12 p.m. at The Cabana in Long Beach (1034 W Beech Street), St. Camillus Special Olympics and Bob Johnson are hosting an Autism Awareness Fundraiser. There will be music by the Rockawades, face painting, a 50/50 and more.

After that, head back to Rockaway and go to the Knights of Columbus as Rockaway Beach Autism Families is hosting Radio Bingo for Autism Awareness! Doors open at 6 p.m. and games begin at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance or $300 for a table of 10. Call or text 718-450-5359 for tickets. $40 tickets will be available at the door. Guests can play radio bingo, hosted by Djs@Work, enjoy a cash bar, win some fun prizes, enter a 50/50 and purchase food from Empanadas on the Rise, or bring their own snacks. Plus there will be coffee, tea and desserts. Proceeds benefit autism communities impacted by the Los Angeles fires.

The following day, April 27, RBAF is hosting their annual Walk for Autism. Registration is at 10 a.m. at the Beach 94th Amphitheater and the walk begins on the boardwalk at 11 a.m. Walk to Beach 116th Street and back to Beach 94th to enjoy a vendor and resource fair!