Autism Awareness Month Events at Saint Joseph’s
In celebration of Autism Awareness Month, the Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support is recognizing and empowering individuals on the spectrum with a variety of family-friendly events.
The Kinney Center’s Apprentice Program is designed for incoming Saint Joseph’s first-year students who are passionate about the field of autism.
April is National Autism Awareness Month, a month committed to raising awareness and promoting inclusion of those affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Since its founding in 2009, Saint Joseph’s University’s Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support has been assisting individuals with ASD as they develop the skills necessary to lead their most fulfilling and independent lives. Throughout the month of April, the Kinney Center is spreading the message of awareness and inclusion by holding a variety of family-friendly events.
“Autism awareness events are an opportunity to show support for neurodiverse individuals,” says Theresea McFalls, interim executive director of Saint Joseph’s Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support. “These events exemplify the campus and surrounding communities' commitment to providing inclusive spaces and willingness to learn how to be an advocate. We have lots of fun in store throughout the month of April!”
Here are five opportunities you can support the neurodiverse individuals this Autism Awareness Month, brought to you by the Kinney Center.
Men's Rowing Race at Boathouse Row
Saturday, March 23, 2024, 11:30 a.m.
Saint Joseph’s Men’s Rowing team is making waves as they race to raise awareness for autism and to the Kinney Center! Gather your friends and family and come support your Hawks at Boathouse Row.
Sensory-Friendly Mass at the SJU Chapel
Sunday, April 7, 2024, 11 a.m. | Event Information
Designed for young people on the autism spectrum, sensory-friendly worship is open to everyone, including siblings, friends or anyone who would like to experience an innovative and relaxed way to worship. A social story and program will be provided for this mass at the Chapel of St. Joseph.
House Cup Coffee Roasters Fundraiser
Friday, April 12, 2024, 12-2 p.m. | Website
It’s going to be a brewtiful day because Theresa McFalls, interim executive director of the Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support, will be a guest barista at House Cup Coffee Roasters in Havertown! The coffees will be made espresso-ly for you.
The House Cup Coffee Roasters creates the Embrace blend for Kinney, and proceeds from each pound sold benefits the Kinney Center.
Family Fun Day on St. Mary's Lawn
Saturday, April 13, 2024, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Register
Spring has sprung, so enjoy a day of family fun! Gather your families and enjoy a day full of music, bubbles, petting zoos, activities, snacks and more all in an autism-friendly environment! The cost is $30 per family.
Autism Awareness Luncheon
Friday, April 19, 2024, 11 a.m. | Register
Join over 200+ autism advocates from the Main Line for an afternoon of shopping with local vendors, lunch and a panel discussion with Drs. Joseph McCleery and Benjamin Yerys about “Autism, Anxiety and ADHD: A Closer Look at Coexistence.” Proceeds from this event benefit individuals affected with autism and their families. This event will be held at Aronimink Golf Club and is $100 per seat ($60 of each ticket is tax deductible).
Learn more about the Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support.