In the heart of Harriman City Hall, a poignant discussion unfolded as city officials gathered to address a matter close to many families in the community: autism awareness. The atmosphere was charged with empathy as one city employee shared a personal connection to autism, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum and their families.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of conditions, varying from mild to severe, and affects millions of families daily. The employee emphasized that while progress has been made in understanding and supporting those with ASD, there remains much to learn about the complexities of the disorder. Symptoms can manifest in various ways, often leading to significant lifelong challenges in communication and social interaction.

The council recognized the importance of early intervention, noting that intensive treatment, particularly applied behavior analysis, can greatly enhance the quality of life for individuals with autism. However, the journey does not end there; lifelong support and community services are crucial for ensuring the health and safety of those affected, as well as for alleviating the psychological and financial burdens that families often face.

Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal that 1 in 59 school-aged children, and 1 in 37 boys, are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. In response to this pressing issue, Harriman City is committed to providing access to essential services for individuals with autism, aiming to help them achieve their full potential.

As the council prepared to declare April 2025 as Autism Awareness Month and April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day, the atmosphere was one of solidarity and hope. Mayor Wayne Best and the council members expressed their dedication to raising public awareness about autism and the various challenges surrounding it. This initiative aims not only to educate the community but also to promote understanding of the programs designed to support individuals with autism and their families.

The motion received unanimous support, with council members sharing personal anecdotes that underscored the importance of the resolution. The commitment to autism awareness reflects Harriman's dedication to fostering an inclusive community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. As the meeting concluded, the council left with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to champion the cause of autism awareness in their city.