REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of Autism Awareness Month
Report
BACKGROUND
The Autism Society of America, the nation’s leading nonprofit autism organization, held the first National Autism Awareness Month in April 1970 to launch a nationwide effort to promote autism awareness, advocate for lifelong programs and services for individuals within the autism spectrum and their families, and to ensure that those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are provided the opportunity to achieve the highest possible quality of life. Autism Awareness Month was officially adopted by Congress in 1984.
DISCUSSION
Autism Awareness Month is a time when individuals, communities, and organizations join together to increase understanding and acceptance of ASD and to raise awareness of the disorder. Each year, Autism Awareness Month is celebrated throughout the month of April, with events to educate local communities and raise public awareness about autism. ASD is a complex developmental disability that affects an individual’s ability to communicate and interact with others. ASD is the fastest-growing development disability in the United States, with one in every 68 children being identified as having autism. In honor of Autism Awareness Month, the Mayor has signed a City Proclamation, proclaiming the month of April, 2018, as Autism Awareness Month in the City of Santa Clara.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) is required.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov <mailto:clerk@santaclaraca.gov> or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Prepared by: Genevieve Yip, Staff Analyst I
Reviewed by: Lynn Garcia, Executive Assistant to the Mayor and Council
Reviewed by: Walter C. Rossmann, Chief Operating Officer
Approved by: Deanna J. Santana, City Manager