Autism Awareness Month
April is Autism Awareness (or Acceptance) Month. This month we celebrate differences and recognize that autism is more than a diagnosis. It is an identity, community, and a lived experience full of triumphs and challenges. Inclusion and advocacy efforts are heightened this month, but it is always necessary to open doors for those with autism.
At Curative Connections, our team is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment and advocating for our members. Our program staff support members and guide them on their journeys for independence, helping them achieve their goals, whatever they might be.
What is Autism?
Part of allyship and inclusivity is understanding what autism is. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that normally appears during early childhood and can impact an individual’s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation. The experience is different for everyone. It is defined by a set of behaviors, and it is referred to as a ‘spectrum condition” that affects people differently and to varying degrees. Each person with autism has a unique set of strengths and struggles. Some people are nonverbal or minimally verbal and communicate in different ways. Some autistic people have intellectual disabilities, and others don’t. There is no known single cause of autism.
1 in 45 Adults in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism.
Signs and Symptoms
Social interactions
- Feeling awkward in social situations
- Having difficulty understanding what others are thinking or feeling
- Preferring to be alone
- Difficulty making friends
- Having difficulty understanding social rules
Verbal and nonverbal communication
- Difficulty making eye contact
- Responding to conversations in a blunt way
- Taking things literally
Repetitive and/or restrictive behaviors
- Having the same routine every day
- Noticing small details or patterns that peers wouldn’t
- Having very intense and specific interests
Sources: https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism
https://autismsociety.org/autism-acceptance-month/
Celebrating National Volunteer Month: The Heart of Curative Connections
April is National Volunteer Month, a perfect time to celebrate the incredible volunteers who make Curative Connections such a special place to belong.
Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Their generosity, compassion, and dedication create meaningful connections with our members and help us deliver services that truly change lives. In 2025, 55 dedicated program volunteers supported our day programs, building relationships that foster independence, joy, and purpose for the people we serve.
Our vital transportation services are only possible because of our volunteer drivers. In 2025, 47 volunteer drivers, working alongside staff, helped provide an average of 200 rides each weekday, totaling more than 45,000 rides over the year. These volunteers traveled more than 523,000 miles, ensuring seniors and adults with disabilities could access medical appointments, jobs, grocery stores, and social opportunities. Their generosity allows Curative Connections to keep rides affordable and accessible, while their friendly faces offer another point of connection for our members each day.
2025 was also an exceptional year for Curative Connections events, with impact that grew exponentially. From the Garden Gala to Kickoff for Curative, these joyful celebrations and important fundraisers would not be possible without volunteers. Between these two events alone, we were supported by over 90 event volunteers, helping to raise critical funds, welcome guests, run raffles, and ensure each event was a success. Their time and talents helped fuel our mission while strengthening our ties with the community.
Thank you to all our volunteers! You are champions of our mission and a key part of what creates a joyful, welcoming member-experience at Curative Connections. Because of you, 94.5% of our members met a goal in 2025, and approximately 1,600 members were served each week.
We are always looking for more volunteers to join our Curative community. If you’re looking to get more connected and make a meaningful impact, we invite you to explore our volunteer opportunities and become part of something truly special.
Oneida Hymn Singers
We had a very exciting performance at Curative Connections West/Yesteryear Village last week! Our members and staff enjoyed a special performance by the Oneida Hymn Singers. A member of the Reminiscent Dementia Care program has been a part of the Oneida Hymn Singers since before he could speak English. How special to be able to share a piece of their heritage with Curative Connections.
The singing of Christian hymns in the Oneida language dates back to 1795 when Christian missionaries began working with the Oneida, in their home state of New York to translate the songs from English. The Oneida Hymn Singers of Wisconsin have continued this tradition since the early 1900s. They are known for singing at wakes, funerals, and other special events comforting families and sharing their culture.
Upcoming Events & Announcements
- Autism Awareness/Acceptance Month
- National Volunteer Month – National Volunteer Week 4/19 – 4/25
- Earth Day – 4/22
