April is Autism Awareness month, and The Hormel Historic Home is offering several opportunities for the public to learn about autism and issues within the autism community.

Several events are scheduled in April to highlight the growing need for concern and awareness about autism.

In honor of World Autism Day on Monday, April 2 newly-hired Community Autism Resource Specialist Mary Barinka will host an ASD Parent/Caregiver Network Event from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Hormel Historic Home.

Parents, caregivers and those who work with those on the autism spectrum are invited to a free event. Participants will learn about Barinka’s new role in the community, hear tips and strategies for effective advocacy, and become familiar with the Autism Friendly Austin initiative.

They will have the opportunity to connect with other caregivers and community resource agencies and to share their ideas, concerns, and needs for the autism population in our community.

The event includes a free taco bar. Child care will be available upon request when registering.

To register or for more information contact autism@hormelhistorichome.org or call 433-4243.

On Thursday, April 12, volunteers from the autism programming team at the Hormel Historic Home will be working at Pizza Ranch to a shine light on the issue of autism. Diners will have an opportunity to talk with key personnel regarding the issue of autism.

On Sunday, April 22, the seventh annual Stepping Out for Autism Walk will be held.

The community fundraising event supports the Summer Autism programming at the HHH. The event features a 1.5 mile walk around Mill Pond, music, food, raffle, and fun.

Funds raised are used to support the summer camps offered for those on the Autism Spectrum. Programming has been offered since 2010 with nearly 50 youth attending each year.

Those with questions should contract Barinka or HHH executive director Holly Johnson, at 507-433-4243, or go to: https://www.hormelhistorichome.org/autism-programming.html