Mayor William E. Cooper Monday declared April as Autism Awareness Month in the City of Enterprise.

“Autism affects verbal and non-verbal communication, the ability to effectively express ideas and feelings, imagination, leisure and play activities, and the establishment of relationships,” Cooper said.

Current statistics show the lifelong neurological disorder affects 1 in 36 children.

“Autism impacts the development and functioning of the brain, and it affects an individual’s ability to interact and communicate with others.”

Autism Support of Alabama will host a ‘Walk for Autism’ in Enterprise on Saturday, April 13 at Bates Memorial Stadium. The event, which starts at 10 a.m. is meant to educate, advocate and celebrate, and will include a resource fair, games, activities, music, and family fun.

“I urge all citizens of Enterprise to join in the observance of raising autism awareness.”