Autism is a developmental disability that impacts a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Because there is such a range of symptoms affiliated with this condition, it is also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). According to the CDC, autism has risen to 1 in every 68 births in the U.S. The exact cause of autism is not known, nor is there a cure for ASD. That said, behavioral and educational treatments can help.
During Autism Awareness Month, in April, organizations, celebrities, media outlets and others come together to increase the public’s understanding and acceptance of the disability. That makes April a great time to consider supporting an ASD-related charity. The highly-rated charities listed here promote awareness of autism, fund research into its causes and cures, and offer support to individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families. Simply click on the charity’s name to go to its Charity Navigator rating page where you can review its performance against our ratings metrics. From there, you can jump to the charity’s website to learn more specifically about its programs and services.