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To create an equitable and inclusive society, we need to come together and support those affected by disabilities. This support can take various forms, including accommodations, financial aid, and, most importantly, raising awareness.

It is a great step forward to see big organizations like the Illinois Center for Autism (ICA) take the initiative and host their annual fundraiser, which, of course, helps children and families affected by autism.

 ICA Pedal for Autism event

This Saturday, on the 17th of August, 2024, ICA will organize their Pedal for Autism event. In the event, one can expect to see cyclists riding two routes to raise funds for ICA’s programs. There’s also a free festival at 10 am, exclusively for families and kids. Children can expect to enjoy bounce houses, games, face painting, and a foam cannon.

Food trucks and other vendors will also be present. One of the highlights of the festival is the sensory splash play tent, which provides a quieter and sensory-friendly area for children on the autism spectrum. This is truly a wonderful way to bring everyone together. The chosen venue is the Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) campus.

The funds raised through the Pedal for Autism fundraiser will support the Institute for Community Achievements (ICA), an organization that has been serving individuals with autism spectrum disorder for more than 47 years.

ICA life and job skills training

ICA offers a range of services and programs aimed at empowering children and adults on the spectrum, including a specialized day school for ages 3-22, an adult services program focused on life and job skills training, a vocational program providing in-house job training, and client/family support that offers advocacy, education, and assistance to individuals and their families. With approximately 1,500 to 1,800 families benefiting from their programs each year, ICA’s impact is truly remarkable.

As the new school year approaches, ICA thought it would be fitting to mark the end of summer and start the new season by organizing an event that highlights their Pedal for Autism initiative, which has been a long-standing tradition. However, this year, they have decided to expand their efforts and put a strong emphasis on involving families in the event.

It’s an event that allows ICA to reach out to more families in need and emphasizes their dedication to supporting and empowering families as a whole. This is an effort to further support families and bring them together through meaningful experiences.

It’s always inspiring to see organizations like ICA go above and beyond their designated roles and strive to positively impact the community.

Autism Support & Treatment in Chicago, IL

Similarly, at Illinois Autism Center, we strongly believe in giving back to the community and creating a more inclusive society for individuals on the autism spectrum. Through our therapy services, we aim to support families and individuals with autism by providing evidence-based interventions that improve quality of life and promote independence.