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AWARE Program
Recognizing establishments where Autism is Welcomed, Accepted and Respected Everyday.
The Autism Council of Utah has created a program for establishments to show the community that you are AWARE of Autism; that you accept these customers, welcome them into your establishment and that you recognize their needs and have created a more conducive atmosphere for them and their families.
Benefits of being AWARE
AWARE Requirements
AWARE Registry
For many people, going to the movies, grabbing a bite to eat, or even visiting a local doctor’s office are activities that require minimal planning to make them successful. This is not the case for most people who live with autism. Careful planning must take place to ensure their comfort and safety, to help them understand the purpose of the activity and to make it enjoyable for everyone involved.
Typical Activity Plan of a family with a child living with autism.
“First, we talk about the activity for hours, days, even weeks in advance. We explain when we will leave, how we will get there, and the sequence of events that will or may occur. We try to visit these places before we bring our boys. We look for things that may take our fun and/or important activity and turn it into a disaster, like….loud music, really dim or really bright lighting, if they have pictures to display options, if there is some kind of child activity (coloring, toys, etc.), if the staff are patient and friendly, and so on. While we are at the activity we are constantly trying our best to help them adjust to the new setting. Often times we use these activities as teaching moment, teaching them manners and social skills.”
We need establishments in our community to support our loved ones living with autism and their families. The Autism Council of Utah has a FREE informational training packet to help educate you and your employees about autism, how to better serve these customers and how to create the best atmosphere for them. Once all employees have received this training, an AWARE decal is given to be displayed on the front door or window of the establishment plus a certificate of recognition to display inside. The ACU will also post your logo, establishment address and contact info on our AWARE Registry for all to access online.
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About the Autism Council of Utah
The Autism Council of Utah is an independent council working to foster collaboration, communication, and learning among families and agencies. Our aim is to promote access to resources and responsible information for individuals of all ages who have, or are affected by autism, or related conditions.