BFA Senior Thesis, Fall 2011
This year, more children will be diagnosed with autism than with childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes or pediatric AIDS combined. Autism, along with other autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) like Rett Syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Aspergers Syndrome, affects an estimated 3 milion individuals in the United States and another tens of millions worldwide. Statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify around 1 in 110 children as on the autism spectrum. This is an overwhelming 600% increase in prevalence over the past two decades. However, even though the rise in this number is due to improved diagnosis and awareness, there is still plenty that remains unknown concerning this disorder.
Prior to preparing for this project, my knowledge of the autism spectrum was limited. An exposure to special needs children in the classroom sparked an interest to do more research. Through this newfound information, I learned a variety of autism cases and just how many sources are readily available. Due to the scarcity of these sources, as well as the information provided, I decided to place my focus on solving this problem.
Through creation of the Charlotte Autism Outreach program (CAO), I aim to educate those affected directly and indirectly by autism spectrum disorders, as well as make more resources available to the general public. The main identity of the organization is represented by a butterfly with puzzle-shaped wings which derives from the symbol's similarities to autism. Within nature, there are no instances of identical butterflies. In comparison, no two autism cases are alike - although some may share certain symptoms. Its wings appear as puzzle pieces to illustrate the organization's goal of working to piece together the mysteries of the disorder, as well as connect people through the transmission of information, whether known or newly acquired. The colors were chosen due to their vibrancy and connection to the overall purpose of the organization. They also serve to brighten up the existing images of autism in the media and remove some of the negative associations to the disorder and those affected.
Once established and operating, Charlotte Autism Outreach would exist to increase the knowledge of the general public about the autism spectrum and even prepare those who may be affected in the future. With its resources on the disorders, symptoms, and available treatments and therapies, more children can be diagnosed and receive assistance as soon as possible. Although there is no "cure" for autism, making a larger amount of information available could make for an equal or greater increase in the number of children receiving early prevention screenings and therapies, which in turn would make daily life more manageable for them and their families.
