On Thursday, February 22, and Friday, February 23, 2024, the Matthew Reardon Center for Autism will host the 7th annual Savannah Autism Conference (SAC) at the Richmond Hill City Center. This two-day event will bring together families affected by autism, autistic self-advocates, health professionals, and educators, all committed to enhancing understanding and support for the autistic community.

“Autism is one of the fastest growing developmental disabilities in the US,” says Reardon Executive Director, Patti Victor. “The CDC estimates that one in thirty-six children will be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Add to these numbers family members, friends, teachers, neighbors, peers, healthcare providers, school systems, employers, etc. and one begins to grasp the broad ramifications that autism has within our community. We aim to educate our community and promote inclusion and support for autistic individuals from childhood to adulthood.”

The conference includes two days of informative workshops covering various topics including service animals, the importance of play in development, and dating on the spectrum. The exhibit hall will host a variety of resources for stakeholders in the autistic community. Britnee Kinard of SD Gunner Fund will deliver the opening plenary. The conference will also welcome Adrian Wood of Tales of an Educated Debutante as the keynote speaker.

Tickets range from $50 to $125 and may be purchased at  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/savannah-autism-conference-tickets-745503369647?aff=oddtdtcreator. To learn more about the conference, visit autismsavannah.org.  For information about exhibitor space or sponsorships, contact Mollie White at [email protected].

Established in 2000, the Matthew Reardon Center for Autism, a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation in Savannah, GA, provides autism-related advocacy and outreach across southeast Georgia and operates southeast Georgia’s only accredited, year-round day school for children with autism. To learn more about the Matthew Reardon Center for Autism, visit matthewreardon.org.