This year, AEIOU invited Australia to ‘Be Awesome for Autism’ as part of national Autism Month commemorations. What ensued was a month of colour, connection and community support!
Starting on 2 April, AEIOU lit iconic landmarks across Queensland, Canberra and South Australia in AEIOU blue, to raise awareness and acceptance of the autistic community.
This exciting campaign included a wide-reaching digital awareness program in a bid to recognise the autism community, the challenges that can be faced, and the overwhelming strengths and qualities every child and parent brings to AEIOU.
Staff and supporters from centres across AEIOU’s network hosted a variety of Bunnings sausage sizzles, raffles and more, as part of a community and fundraising program in a grassroots-led campaign for support.
The month culminated in Be Awesome for Autism Fun Run and Family Fun Day events in Toowoomba and Brisbane, raising almost $80,000 across the month.
Despite a rainy start to the day on Sunday 21 April, hundreds of students from Toowoomba Grammar School and locals turned up to tackle a series of 10km, 5km and 400m courses.
The following week, on Sunday 28 April, nearly 500 Brisbane locals turned out, and enjoying the free family fun day, pony rides, face painting, a petting zoo and a range of children’s activities.
CEO Alan Smith said the organisation was blown away by the outstanding support across the month. “AEIOU values the opportunity to connect with the community and to see so many people turn out in support was phenomenal.
“We thank our incredible partners and everybody who fundraised on behalf of the children we enrol at AEIOU. We look forward to returning with these great events in 2025.”
A vibrant month in the name of understanding, acceptance and appreciation of the unique strengths and qualities of people with autism captured the hearts and minds of our community across Australia.
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