Autism Awareness Month has officially begun. Organizations across the country and around the globe are raising awareness for the fastest growing developmental disorder in the world. In the United States alone, 1 in every 68 children born are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. In Des Moines, Iowa, the Norwalk Police Department is showing support by wearing specialty patches. Officers have been spotted wearing colorful puzzle pieces while on duty. The puzzle piece design is a symbol used by the National Autistic Society.
The Norwalk Police Department is running a fundraiser that will provide assistance to families affected by autism. Each patch is worth $5 and is donated to the Homestead in Clive, Iowa, a group that provides academic services to children with autism. While fundraisers make the round during the month, on Sunday, April 9th, Monuments will lit in blue lights in honor of World Autism Awareness Day.