ST. LOUIS – Autism Speaks is engaging schools, businesses and civic organizations to give St. Louis a distinctly blue hue for World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, 2013. The St. Louis Chapter of Autism Speaks is again teaming with the architectural firm HOK to light significant civic landmarks and businesses in the region blue. Last year, more than 20 structures were illuminated in blue, including St. Francis Xavier Church at Saint Louis University, the Civil Courts Building at 10 N. Tucker in Downtown St. Louis and the Saint Louis Zoo Monument Entrance Sign. A gallery of beautifully lit structures locally can be found on the Autism Speaks – St. Louis Chapter Facebook page.
In addition to lighting St. Louis blue, schools, businesses and civic organizations are being asked to encourage the wearing of blue clothing on April 2nd or showcase the color blue in some way. To learn more on how to participate, visit www.lightitupblue.org or call the St. Louis Chapter of Autism Speaks at 314-989-1003.
According to The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, autism is diagnosed in one out of 88 children, including one out of 54 boys. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. The CDC has called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown. For more information, visit www.autismspeaks.org.