According to the IDEA for the ages of 6-21 in the state of North Carolina, there were 3,518 individuals with Autism alone. This does not include the early intervention cases or individuals over 22.  Currently 1 out of 150 individuals are estimated to have autism. This is why the programs  NCCALL would implement have such value to the communities of WNC. Autism is on the rise, and there is no cure or known cause. We need to address the situation of our Autistic population now, with special programs suited to their special needs.

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Text Box: “Autism Is An Epidemic!” Lee Grossman, President of the Autism Society of America 2005 Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the second most common developmental disability, more common than childhood cancer, cystic fibrosis and multiple sclerosis combined. The number of persons diagnosed with ASD is climbing at an alarming rate. In the 15 years since my son Zak’s diagnosis, the occurrence of ASD has risen from an estimated one case in 10,000 to one in 150. Current estimates indicate that 1 ˝ million Americans have ASD, and ten times that number are impacted by it. North Carolina is home to approximately 30,000 persons living with Autism. No one knows the cause, nor is there a cure for this global crisis without social boundaries. Autism is an epidemic. ASD is a lifelong brain disorder affecting four times as many males as females. The symptoms of ASD manifest as erratic behaviors and poor communication skills that limit an individual’s capacity to function socially. Every person on the spectrum has unique behaviors which share basic characteristics but vary greatly in severity. Autism does not affect physical appearance, therefore Autistic behavior is commonly construed as rude or threatening. What might be considered cute but curious behavior in an Autistic child is often considered dangerous when exhibited by an adult on the spectrum. Many Autistic persons experience sensory overload and have difficulty coping with ordinary sights, sounds and smells in their environment. Shrinking away from touch, avoiding eye contact, making odd sounds, engaging in repetitive behaviors, illogical fixations, all these traits may appear as symptoms of ASD. Although a cure is still just a dream, Autistic persons can learn coping skills to enable them to lead productive lives. Through various therapies, education and support strategies, persons on the spectrum can fully participate in their communities with pride. As the population of persons with ASD ages, communities will be called upon to provide alternative residential and occupational opportunities for them. North Carolina Creative Autistic Living and Learning, Inc. (NCCALL, Inc.) is looking ahead at sustainable possibilities with a positive community impact. Our goal is to provide a workshop environment focused on the production and marketing of Autistic Art! Many individuals with Autism have exceptional creative talent, and the expression of that talent imparts a sense of self esteem and accomplishment otherwise suppressed by the social awkwardness of ASD. Please join NCCALL, Inc. as stewards of a bright and productive future for persons living with Autism. Please sign our guestbook while you are here so we can keep you up to date about our endeavors. Together we can make a difference in the lives of Autistic persons everywhere. Thank you for caring….. Sincerely, Joan Bazzel Vice-President, NCCALL, Inc.

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North Carolina C.A.L.L. Inc.

Dedicated to providing creative occupational and residential opportunities for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Text Box: Text Box: About Autism:

Autism is a developmental disability that typically appears during the first two years of life.  Autism affects the normal development of the brain which causes verbal communication, sensory development, and social interaction to be impaired or non-existent.

4 out of 5 Autistic people are male.

Characteristics include:

¨ Inappropriate laughing or giggling

¨ No fear of real dangers

¨ Sustained odd play

¨ Spinning of objects

¨ Uneven gross/fine motor skills

¨ Resists change in routine

¨ Insensitivity to pain

¨ Difficulty in mixing with others

¨ Inappropriate attachment to objects

¨ No eye contact

¨ Responds differently to touch.

These are just a few characteristics

that may be apparent in individuals

with Autism.