Cape Abilities and local partners "Light it up Blue"

For the six year in a row, Cape Abilities celebrates World Autism Awareness Day to show support for those affected by autism spectrum disorder. To spread the message again this year, the agency will display the unique Light It Up Blue™ giant sculpture created by local artist Michael Magyar.
Light It Up Blue™ is a global initiative that kicks-off the United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Month on Tuesday, April 2nd.

"We Light it up Blue in April because it symbolizes our pledge to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism,"says Cape Abilities President & CEO, Jonathan Sproul. "At Cape Abilities, we are shining a light on our unwavering commitment to provide the high quality and personalized services to a growing population of individuals with autism. We invite and encourage the entire Cape Cod community to join us and pledge your commitment to this population by Lighting it Up Blue not only in April, but every day of the year."

The display of our unique 18-foot by 10-foot iron sculpture, lit with hundreds of LED blue & white lights, will shine at Cape Abilities Farm on Route 6A in Dennis to promote greater understanding and acceptance of those with autism.

This one-of-kind, custom-made iron sculpture, designed by Michael Magyar at his Glass Studio on Cape Cod in Sandwich, is a representation of Autism Speaks' iconic light bulb and puzzle piece that will remind thousands of visitors and local residents in the month of April of the valuable role individuals with autism play in our community.

"What an honor to join Cape Abilities for such a terrific cause," said Michael Magyar. "It is a true pleasure for me to see this unique "Giant" lit up in the dark night, knowing that it is helping to raise awareness for so many. It really takes a community effort to make this happen and I hope it brings joy and wonder to everyone."

Throughout the month, Cape Abilities will also:
• Join with Cape Cod towns in raising awareness by lighting up their municipalities with blue light bulbs
• Team up with Cape Cod non-profit F.O.R.W.A.R.D (Friends or Relatives With Autism Related Disabilities) to present a very important, free ALEC (Autism and Law Enforcement Education Coalition) training program for Families, Caregivers, and First Responders serving individuals with special needs on Monday, April 22, from 6-8:30pm at the Cultural Center of Cape Cod, 307 Old Main Street, South Yarmouth, MA
• Continue its monthly partnership with Chatham Orpheum Theater to present the free, monthly, family-friendly Cape Abilities "Sensory Film Series" on Saturday April 20 at 9:30am
• Provide additional events and information, autism resources, and tips for raising awareness and support at:
• www.capeabilities.org/autism-awareness-month