For many of us not directly connected to someone with autism, the disorder remains as illusive and misunderstood a topic as, say, college-level calculus or physics. We know it exists, we know it is important; however, if we are not forced (for whatever reason) to learn the ins and outs, it remains to us a relatively abstract idea.
“Autism is a way of being. It is pervasive. It colors every experience, every perception, thought, emotion, and encounter, every aspect of existence.” –ADAPT4Autism brochure
Autism, like many other neurological and psychological disorders, remains elusive for two reasons. First and foremost, the exact causes of this and other “disorders of the brain” are shrouded in mystery. While there is believed to be a genetic source for autism, other theories posit environmental causes, such as heavy metals, pesticides or childhood vaccines. Second, the behaviors of autistic children are often either mistaken for simple bad behavior or even mental retardation. On the contrary, however, these children are typically very high-functioning intellectually, and simply need assistance in understanding normal social cues.
A local nonprofit agency, ADAPT4Autism, has dedicated their efforts to making life more navigable for Southern Illinois children and families living with autism. Located in Belleville, Illinois, ADAPT provides educational programs and pro-social therapy for children on the autism spectrum. The organization was started in 2010 by Chris Gibson-Cipfl, an educator of children with autism, and Alice Howe, the parent of a child with autism. Together, they have developed numerous programs, including camps, aquatic and music training, and family- and team-building exercises, all aimed at improving the overall quality of life for those suffering from ASD.
On April 14, 2012, ADAPT4Autism is holding their “Run4ASD,” a 5K race to raise funds for the various activities provided by the organization over the summer. This year, those special events include camps as well as swim lessons. Every Wednesday from June 6 to August 1, ADAPT will run a day camp at Cornerstone Christian Church in Belleville, as well as an overnight camp on the 12th, 13th and 14th of July. They will also be offering swimming lessons July 23rd through 27th. All of these events, in addition to the myriad of services the organization already provides, truly help autistic children enjoy and experience life without the scrutiny of judgmental eyes. Moreover, they help teach these children the skills they need to lead happy and normal lives.
The “Run4ASD” takes place on April 14 at McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois, and features both a shorter “family fun” race and the official 5K. Entry fees are $25 for individuals and $50 for teams, and you can register either in-person on the day of the race or ahead of time online or by mail. After the race, ADAPT asks participants to stay for food, balloon art, jumpers for the kids and informational boots on ADAPT4Autism’s summer programs and services.
If running is not your cup of tea, you can still help ADAPT provide exceptional experiences for children this summer. ADAPT is always accepting donations, and the organization thanks donors for their generosity at the Race4ASD in April and their annual awards ceremony late in the summer. All donations to ADAPT are tax deductible, and donors will receive a copy of their quarterly report stating how funds have been used to support local families.
For more information on this wonderful organization, including how to register for the race, how to donate and how to utilize their services, visit their website at ADAPT4Autism.org.
