April is World Autism Month, and the “Light It Up Blue” campaign works to bring awareness of the disorder and acceptance of those on the autism spectrum. Today autism is prevalent in 1 in 68 births, and there is no known single cause of autism. An increase in awareness, early diagnosis and intervention, and access to appropriate services and supports can lead to significantly improved outcomes.

Chicopee City Hall will be illuminated blue Monday for “Light It Up Blue” to begin the celebration of the start of Autism Speaks signature campaign that, along with the international autism community, recognizes the United Nations’ sanctioned 10^th annual World Autism Awareness Day on April 2^nd and the entire month of April being World Autism Month. All six Chicopee Fire Stations will each also display large puzzle piece, which is the symbol of Autism Awareness, and will be illuminated blue beginning with a ceremony at Station 3 on Cabot Street.

A resource fair and ceremony hosted by Chicopee Light It Up BLUE on April 8^th from 12:00pm to 3:30pm will occur at the Moose Family Center #1849 on Fuller Road. The community is encouraged to attend the event.

Sunshine Village, a local non-profit organization that supports people on the autism spectrum, will “light up” the Mayor’s Hallway in City Hall and has decorated the Chicopee Chamber of Commerce’s window. Everyone is invited to stop by and view the art and decorations.

“City Hall is proud to continue to participate in ‘Light It Up Blue,’ ” said Mayor Richard Kos. “Now that the repairs are completed on our façade, we will again be able to join in this effort to help raise awareness for autism and show our support to people on the spectrum and their families by lighting our entrance blue.”