Supporting Neurodiversity: AD Joins Countywide Autism Acceptance Efforts

Each April, communities around the world come together to recognize Autism Acceptance Month—a time to deepen understanding, promote inclusion, and celebrate the diverse experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum. This year, the Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department (AD)  participated in three community events that highlighted the importance of acceptance and access for all.

The month began with a proclamation from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on April 1, 2025, officially designating April as Autism Acceptance Month and April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day. This call to action encouraged residents, local leaders, and organizations to work together in building a more inclusive county.

The theme of World Autism Awareness Day 2025, “Embracing Neurodiversity in the Digital Age,” emphasized how technology is helping autistic individuals connect, express themselves, and access support in new ways. It also reinforced the importance of early diagnosis, inclusive education, and equitable services.

Throughout the month, AD —through its L.A. Found program—was active in the community:

On April 2, AD participated in the Let’s T.E.A.M. Up! Autism Awareness Event at the Industry Hills Expo Center. Hosted by the LA County Sheriff’s Department Mental Evaluation Team (LASD MET), the event brought together more than 200 community members for a day of resources, education, and engagement around mental wellness and wandering prevention. AD staff connected with attendees, offering information on services for individuals with cognitive conditions including autism and Alzheimer’s.

Later that week, on April 5, AD joined the Annual Autism Conference 2025, hosted by California Resource Services for Independent Living (CRS-IL) in Monterey Park. The event’s theme, “See Beyond the Spectrum,” focused on practical strategies for inclusion across education, employment, and daily life. Keynote speaker Dr. Kerry Magro, a best-selling author and advocate on the spectrum, inspired the audience with his personal journey. Additional presenters, Jennifer A. Nakamura and Gisselle M. Quintana- Nooshabadi, offered valuable guidance on estate planning and conservatorship. AD staff engaged with more than 100 attendees, connecting families with services and supports through its L.A. Found Program.

To close out the month, on April 12, the department participated in the 4th Annual Sirens of Silence event at the San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center. Hosted in collaboration with the L.A. County Fire Department (Fire) and the Department of Mental Health (DMH), the event welcomed over 450 families for a special day with first responders. Designed to build trust and familiarity, the event created a safe space for individuals with autism to interact with emergency personnel, while also providing families with critical safety resources.

The County is committed to continue building an inclusive, informed, and supportive community for people with autism and their families. As we close out Autism Acceptance Month, we are reminded that true inclusion begins with awareness—and is sustained through continued action.