Individuals, Families Living with Autism Get Practice Run at Air Travel
Soaring for Autism event gives families a mock travel experience
INDIANAPOLIS (April 15, 2017) – As part of National Autism Awareness Month, the Indianapolis International Airport (IND) served as the host site this afternoon to kick off the Soaring for Autism event. Approximately 75 individuals, family members and caregivers participated in the event where they practiced navigating the airport travel experience.
“This is a valuable experience for individuals of all ages with autism,” said Dana Renay, chief executive ally of the Autism Society of Indiana. “Traveling can be difficult for some children and adults with autism, and participating in practice activities like this can help make the travel experience easier on the child and the whole family.”
The event, hosted by the Autism Society of Indiana and in partnership with Delta Airlines, TSA Indy, and the Indianapolis Airport Authority, enabled participants with autism, their families and caregivers to experience everything from getting boarding passes, to checking luggage, to TSA security screening to finding the gate and boarding the plane.
"Travel broadens our horizons, helps us grow and stretch ourselves, and create memories and bonds with each other,” said Mario Rodriguez, IAA executive director. “That’s how we see the Soaring for Autism event – as an opportunity to open that door for families and children to broaden their connection to the world and each other. We’re honored and inspired to be a part of it.”
According to the Autism Society of America, one percent of the world’s population has autism spectrum disorder, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports autism has risen to one in every 68 births in the United States.
Autism affects an individual’s ability to communicate and interact with others to varying degrees, depending on where the person falls on the autism spectrum, the Autism Society of America reports. Because of local organizations like the Autism Society of Indiana shining the spotlight on autism, more opportunities are available for communities to embrace and support families living with autism.
For more information, visit www.inautism.org.