Mental Health Association sponsors events on Autism Awareness on April 22

Orange County — The Mental Health Association in Orange County, Inc., is celebrating April as Autism Awareness Month with several events. A candle lighting ceremony will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 22, in the Arboretum of Thomas Bull Memorial Park, Route 416, Montgomery. Those interested may attend and light a candle in honor of a specific individual who has an autism spectrum disorder or to show support, love, understanding and acceptance for the entire community. There will be music and light refreshments, including gluten free/casein free snacks. Support groups for parents and family members of children who have Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder or Asperger syndrome will be meeting in April. New members are always welcome at any of the groups. Parents are encouraged to attend the regular monthly meetings to share information and experiences relating to raising a child who is living with a spectrum disorder. All events are free, but registration is required. For further information or to make a reservation, call Anne Klingner, CAPIS Coordinator at 294-7411 ext. 253 or log on to www.mhaornageny.com.