CLARION, Pa. (EYT) — Two local professionals organized a Sign and Sip Party at Clarion VFW last week for “Autism Speaks.”

Lorie Taylor, a professor at Clarion University, and Jamie Hooks, a teacher at Riverview Intermediate Unit #6, organized the fundraiser.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by social-interaction difficulties, communication challenges, and a tendency to engage in repetitive behaviors.

A new government survey of parents suggests that 1 in 45 children, ages 3 through 17, have been diagnosed with ASD.

To learn more about Autism, visit Autism Speaks here.

(Photos submitted by Ashley Corcetti)