Acknowledging the growing number of families with a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, Mayor Carolann Garafola proclaimed April as Autism Awareness Month at the April 12 Township Committee meeting.

The proclamation notes the importance of early diagnosis, and the "wide ranging implications on the entire family" when a child is diagnosed.

As part of the proclamation, the township "encourages all residents to educate themselves about autism and autism spectrum disorders to help assist those living with autism, and to work together to ensure that those living with autism are accurately diagnosed and able to reach their full potential throughout their lives."

After Mayor Garafola read the proclamation, she invited Paul Abend, founder of the Comprehensive Medical Autism Assessment and Treatment Center, to speak about the center and other facilities in Warren involved in diagnosing and treatment for children and adults with autism spectrum disorders. Accompanied by Sheri Marino Haiken and Amit Amit Gaglani, of Bright Star Therapies, Dr. Abend discussed his view of "paying it forward" to help others with family members diagnosed with autism.