North Carolina's Governor Josh Stein has officially dedicated April to a cause that hits home for many: World Autism Month. It's a time to shine a light on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and those it affects, but it's also about recognizing the struggle of families and supporting organizations that help make a difference. "I am proud to recognize North Carolinians with autism, their families, and organizations across the state that educate us about the unique challenges people with autism face from early childhood," Governor Stein said, according to a press release.
With ASD impacting an estimated 1 in 36 children, as reported by the CDC, it's a topic of substantial relevance. Governor Stein's proclamation isn’t just a gesture but a call to action, backing initiatives like the innovative LiNC-IT program, which aims to integrate individuals with autism into the workforce. Launched with the aid of the North Carolina Business Committee for Education, housed in the Office of the Governor, the program has made strides in creating employment opportunities. "To help people with autism thrive, schools, families, and organizations need resources to ensure that the students reach their full potential," Stein emphasized, signaling his commitment to the cause, as per the Governor's office press release.
March 2025 marked the sixth anniversary of a significant step forward in this arena: Executive Order 92. The order champions competitive, integrated employment for individuals with disabilities across state agencies. As a result, state employees have acknowledged a more supportive work environment thanks to North Carolina’s designation as an Employment First state. It's clear that Governor Stein is pushing to keep this momentum going, with his proposed budget reflecting increased funding for vocational rehabilitation, direct support professionals, and the education for children with disabilities, along with additional slots for the Medicaid Innovations Waiver.
For further information on ASD, resources are available through the UNC TEACCH Autism Center, the Autism Society of North Carolina, and the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development. If you're looking to get involved or learn more about the LiNC-IT initiative, details can be found on the LiNC-IT website or by reaching out directly to [email protected]. This April, as communities come together to raise awareness and advocate for individuals with ASD, North Carolina stands out in its efforts to foster an environment where everyone can thrive.
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