HARSHAW, Wis. (WJFW) — Autism is a range of different conditions and abilities that can affect how someone interacts and sees the world.
Aurora’s Guiding Light Foundation (AGLF) began as a way to empower people with autism and their families. The nonprofit held an event Sunday to bring awareness and acceptance to autism.
The day started off quiet and sensory friendly with some music playing, as people walked around to see the activities taking place.
The autism event started as a way to build a community.
Alexandra Kuckkahn, AGLF president, said: “My daughter is 12 years old and her name is aurora. She’s a level three autistic girl and is nonspeaking and we wanted to provide a community that was more inclusive and had things that were centered around her particular set of needs. And by doing so we found out there’s an entire spectrum that needs to be represented.”
The day was designed so everyone on the spectrum could have fun. Autism advocate, Ashley Mathy, was enjoying the event and what it stands for.
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“I feel great,” Mathy said. “I think we need to spread awareness that people with invisible disabilities rock and we’re just extra honest than everyone else.”
The event allowed people on the autism spectrum to see each other and talk more about autism.
“We need to be accepted and appreciated in society just like everyone else,” Mathy said. “We want to be accepted and motivated just like everyone else.”
Kuckkahn added: “Representation is just such an important thing for everyone, so by advocating for people on the spectrum, we’re really advocating for everyone. We’re leading as example to show this is how you can help people that maybe need a little extra help.”
The day also was an opportunity to raise funds for special programs.
“All the funds that we raise here today go directly into our community to support programming for people with disabilities,” Kuckkahn said.
If you want to learn more about Aurora’s Guiding Light you can find them on Facebook. To to learn more about Mathy you can find more info on her website or her business, The Lilac Room.
