World Autism Month FAQ

What is World Autism Month?

Every April Autism Speaks celebrates World Autism Month beginning with United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. Today, misconceptions of autism and the frequency in which people are excluded, threaten access to the vital information, resources and support autistic people and their families need. This World Autism Month and beyond, we are asking people to join with Autism Speaks and Act Fearlessly for Change - by standing for a world where autistic people are recognized and have the opportunities they deserve.

How can I participate?

Everyone is encouraged to participate. Whether you have autism, love someone who does or are looking to support a diverse, accepting and inclusive community – there are many ways to be fearless.

Visit autismspeaks.org/fearless to:

Pledge: Act fearlessly for a world where autistic people are recognized and have the opportunities they deserve. Show your support by taking a pledge and be seen on our live streaming wall of support or post your support on your social media using #actfearlesslyforchange.
Give: Make a meaningful, lasting impact for people with autism with your gift. It’s one of the easiest and best ways to show your support. Donate today!
Fundraise: Participate in a journey of purpose and passion with our 36-mile fundraising challenge for the 1 in 36 children with autism. Your support provides funding for critical resources, services and support for the autism community in need. Join the challenge now.
Advocate: Rally for change - The Autism CARES Act represents ‘billions’ of dollars in federal support for autistic people and their and families. Now, more than ever, we must unite and advocate for its reauthorization. Contact your local representatives to support reauthorization.
Project Fearless Kids – We’re asking teachers and kids to use their superpower to create a world where inclusion is championed, and differences are celebrated. Engage your school to take the pledge and stand against injustice and bullying, ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

How can I fundraise?

Participate in a journey of purpose and passion with our 36-mile fundraising challenge for the 1 in 36 children with autism. Your support provides funding for critical resources, services and support for the autism community in need. Join the challenge.

Where can I get items to show my support of Autism Speaks?

Please visit the Autism Speaks eStore to purchase t-shirts, bracelets, pins, yard signs and other promotional products to spread kindness. Printed materials such as posters, flyers and brochures can be downloaded for free.

Can I use the Autism Speaks World Autism Month marks for my event/fundraiser?

Yes. Logos may be downloaded from the resources page and used for informational or educational purposes during World Autism Month.

All uses of the Autism Speaks World Autism Month logo must comply with the following Terms of Use:

The logo must remain intact. You may not change or add anything to it.
You may not place the logo on any product or use for selling purposes.
In the US, any fundraising activity utilizing the World Autism Month marks (or any Autism Speaks marks) must have the authorization of Autism Speaks. Contact marketing@autismspeaks.org and an Autism Speaks representative will contact you directly to review guidelines.

Can my charity participate in World Autism Month activities? Can we raise funds for autism-related resources?

Yes. Your charity may plan and execute fundraising activities to support autism and may use the Autism Speaks World Autism Month marks in their entirety (no modification is permitted). Please note that US-based charities must comply with terms of use above.

What is Light It Up Blue?

The Light It Up Blue initiative was created by Autism Speaks in 2010. Since that time, joined by the international autism community, hundreds of thousands of landmarks, buildings, homes and communities around the world light blue on World Autism Awareness Day (April 2) in recognition of people with autism.

How can I light my home, commercial building or public structure blue?

Home Depot is once again, an official Autism Speaks World Autism Month sponsor. You can purchase Autism Speaks blue light bulbs at Home Depot stores or online at homedepot.com.

How can I get a receipt for my online donation?

All online donations are acknowledged at the time of donation and through email confirmation. We recommend that donors print out their acknowledgement or save the email for tax purposes.

Additional questions?

Email us at connectwithus@autismspeaks.or g