The Southwest Voice

This August the Kern Autism Network (KAN) conducted its first Back to School Backpacks Project, distributing school supplies to children affected by autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

KAN purchased 30 backpacks and filled them with school supplies donated by Stinson Stationers and Big Lots on Olive Drive.  KAN worked with Kern Regional Center to distribute these gifts to children with ASD before they returned to class at the start of the academic year.

Autism is characterized by impaired social interaction, problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and unusual, repetitive, or severely limited activities and interests (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke).  One in 150 children is affected by autism.

The Kern Autism Network provides support, awareness, information and education to families, professionals and the public throughout Kern County.  New members are always welcome.  For more information, visit our website at www.kernautism.org.