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City of Parkland Holds Autism Awareness and Acceptance Event April 9

by Guest Contributer March 24, 2022

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Pine Trails Park in Parkland {City of Parkland}

By Michelle Spitzer

The City of Parkland is hosting an Autism Awareness and Acceptance event in April with vendors on hand sharing educational resources.

There will also be games, live music, arts and crafts, face painting, a petting zoo, etc.

Parkland was recently awarded the rare distinction of being an autism-friendly city. It is the only city in South Florida and just the second in the state to receive the honor.

Mayor Rich Walker referenced how the former Mayor, Christine Hunschofsky, started the process at the last city commission meeting and invited her to participate in the presentation.

City officials worked for years to earn the honor. From library workers to BSO-Parkland deputies, school resource officers, and parks and recreation employees, staff received extra training on working with individuals with autism and their families.

Residents and visitors also have access to sensory maps, including the library, city parks, and city hall. Social stories are also available, which gives residents and visitors detailed explanations on what they can expect from sights and sounds at different places throughout the city.