The “Light It Up Blue” campaign for Autism Awareness starts Friday, April 1, and runs through Saturday, which is the fourth United Nations Autism Awareness Day. An organization called Autism Speaks is driving this initiative, “Light It Up Blue,” as a way to raise awareness about autism and be part of a worldwide movement to show support for the autism community.

The organization is asking individuals, businesses, schools and other organizations to show their support, which can be accomplished in numerous ways. Use blue light bulbs to light up homes and buildings, wear blue clothing, and take the pledge to “Light It Up” for autism. Taking the pledge, which involves telling others about this campaign, can be done on an Autism Speaks’ web site, http://www.lightitupblue.org

I’ve had the privilege of knowing an autistic child, cared for and taught from the age of three by my occupational therapist wife for many years. It has been so exciting to see this child learn – Learn to communicate and do so many other things most said she would never be able to do. Now she can communicate by signing, often understand what is being said, dress herself, play games and participate in many activities.

This initiative is such a worthwhile cause to spread the word about caring for and helping autistic citizens. At Gorell Windows, we are planning as much possible in a short time span. From changing our web site home page to promote awareness of Light It Up Blue to collecting from our employees to provide financial support to organizations dedicated to helping autistic individuals. We encourage everyone to promote this cause. To help, visit http://www.lightitupblue.org , read about the effort and take the pledge! While you’re there, take a look at some of the amazing photos of how the world will be lit up in blue!