HOSA Autism Awareness October Newsletter

October has been an amazing and meaningful month for our Autism Awareness team! On October 18th, we were thrilled to participate in the Boyertown Halloween Parade. The parade was incredible — streets lined with families, children in colorful costumes, and the entire community buzzing with excitement. Walking together as a team, waving signs, and handing out candy was such a rewarding experience. We saw firsthand how powerful it is to bring a message of inclusion and understanding directly to the community. Many people stopped to ask questions, take pictures, or simply cheer us on, and it was heartwarming to see how eager people are to support our cause. The energy and positivity at the parade reminded us why events like this are so important.

Raising autism awareness is deeply personal to us. We have family members on the spectrum, and we’ve seen how challenging it can be to navigate a world that doesn’t always understand or accommodate differences. By participating in events like the parade, trunk-or-treats, and our upcoming 5K, we’re able to educate others, challenge misconceptions, and create a community where everyone — regardless of ability — feels valued and included. Small actions, like smiling, handing out information, or wearing a blue ribbon, might seem simple, but together they create real change.

We’re keeping the momentum going with two exciting trunk-or-treat events coming up! On October 25th, we’ll be at Pickering Valley Elementary, and on October 26th, we’ll join the fun at Christ Mertz Lutheran Church. These events are more than just fun — they’re a chance to connect with families, share our message, and inspire kids and adults alike to think about what inclusion really means. Stop by our trunk to say hello, grab a treat, and learn how you can help make a difference in someone’s life.

Looking ahead, we’re so excited for our Autism Awareness 5K Walk on November 1st. Every dollar we raise supports the So Much to Give Inclusive Café, an amazing local organization that provides opportunities for people of all abilities to succeed and feel valued. The walk is more than a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of community, support, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to shine. We invite everyone to join us, whether by walking, volunteering, or cheering on participants. Together, we can show that raising awareness isn’t just about talking — it’s about taking action, creating inclusion, and spreading kindness wherever we go.

October has reminded us that awareness starts with a simple act: showing up. Whether it’s waving at someone in the parade, attending a trunk-or-treat, or walking for a cause, each action makes a difference. We are so grateful to our friends, families, and community members for supporting us this month — your encouragement, participation, and positivity are what make our work possible. By continuing to raise awareness, we are helping to build a community that celebrates differences, supports one another, and truly values every individual.

We can’t wait to finish October strong and look forward to November, where we will continue advocating, educating, and spreading kindness — one step, one smile, and one event at a time.