More Than Just “Aware”
The geographical area served by Autism Society of North Carolina Mecklenburg County Chapter, or “ASNC-MCC”, is the largest in North Carolina. As the single largest fundraising project for the group, the Autism Aware Fare is crucially important to our mission and our ability to impact the lives of those in our area touched by autism.

Spreads Awareness
Part of the mission of the Autism Aware Fare is to educate our neighbors about autism. Although the physical appearance of individuals with autism isn’t generally different from their “typical” peers, their nervous systems are easily overstimulated causing inappropriate behavior and exaggerated responses.

Feeds the Mind and Soul
Your local Autism Society chapter sends out over 700 newsletters a month keeping local families in touch with activities and the latest autism news. We also sponsor monthly programs providing education and inspiration as well as specialized groups such as the High-Functioning Autism/Asperger’s Syndrome online support group and the “Teens Stepping Out” social group.

Serves Those in Crisis
We donate to families with autism in crisis through “First in Families” (www.fifmeck.com).

Supports Our Educators
For children with autism, their teacher is their strongest link to a brighter future. So your local Autism Society provides grants each year – up to $5,000 as part of Annual Teacher Recognition. We also host parties to help teachers make supplies and post a “wish list” for teachers in our monthly newsletter.

Provides Links to Research
Through networking with our state and national organization, we keep parents informed about opportunities for active participation in autism research and link them with national organizations which fund it.