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EMJ Atmore Outreach and Councilwoman Eunice Johnson held their annual Autism Awareness Banquet Saturday at The Nelson Place.

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States today, according to Autism Speaks’ website.

The event was held to celebrate autism awareness and acceptance, and this year’s theme was “It takes a village to do this together.”

The event included a dinner, special guests, certificate and prize giveaways, fun and dancing.