102-10

102-10 April 27, 2010 RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING APRIL AS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH WHEREAS, Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain and impacts development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills; and WHEREAS, both children and adults with Autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions and leisure or play activities; and WHEREAS, we should all keep in mind that Autism is a spectrum disorder and it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees, which is why early diagnosis is so crucial; and WHEREAS, by learning the signs, we can benefit children by directing them to one of the many specialized intervention programs; and WHEREAS, Autism is the most common of the five Pervasive Developmental Disorders and according to the Centers for Disease Control in 2007 affects an estimated 1 in 150 births, translating to as many as 1.5 million Americans today believed to have some form of Autism, with New Jersey having the highest prevalence rate of 1 in every 94 children; and WHEREAS, based on statistics from the United States Department of Education and other governmental agencies, Autism is growing at a startling rate of 10 to 17 percent per year. At this rate, the Autism Society of America estimates that the prevalence of Autism could reach 4 million Americans in the next decade; and WHEREAS, Autism knows no racial, ethnic, social boundaries, family income, lifestyle, educational levels and can affect any family and any child; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and the Township Council of the Township of West Orange hereby proclaims the month of April as “Autism Awareness Month” Susan McCartney, Council President Karen J. Carnevale, Municipal Clerk Adopted: April 27, 2010