Oneida County Raises Autism Awareness

Employees Donate $1,710 to Kelberman Center

Oneida County spent April and a portion of May doing its part to raise awareness of Autism and its employees donated money to help the Kelberman Center of Utica provide state-of-the-art programs and services for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families.

“Many of us have had our lives touched by Autism in one form or another,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “It’s important not only to raise awareness, but also to provide all the support possible to those who are diagnosed and their families. And it is equally crucial that we do everything in our power to promote inclusion and acceptance throughout our community.”

Oneida County employees raised $1,710 through a dress down day and bake sale both held on May 3 that was donated to the Kelberman Center’s Walk for Autism Mohawk Valley event that took place at SUNY Polytechnic Institute in Utica the following day.

National Autism Awareness Month is recognized in April as an opportunity to raise awareness about autism, promote inclusion and self-determination for all and assure that each person with Autism Spectrum Disorder is provided the opportunity to achieve the highest possible quality of life.

The Oneida County Office Building in Utica was lit up in multiple colors on national Autism Awareness Day which was celebrated on April 2 and again the week leading into the May 4th Walk For Autism.