Autism Society of North Carolina and Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company partner to provide unique event.
Many children with autism cannot experience and enjoy films the way their peers do because of the intense sensory input experienced during a theater showing. The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) is partnering with the Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company (APBC) for a sensory-friendly movie where the volume is low, lights are not dimmed, and movie-goers may stand, walk, dance, and move around during the film. This movie event is for children on the autism spectrum, their families, and the community, to experience a film in a safe and accepting environment without the apprehension that may otherwise be part of such an outing.
Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company is generously hosting, donating all the ticket sales to ASNC, and offering a 20% discount on food and beverages (non-alcohol) ordered from the menu during this showing. Lisa Leokum, APBC manager says āWe are proud to be partnering with the Autism Society of NC in providing a low sensory movie theater environment for children with ASD.ā
The sensory friendly showing will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, April 20 at APBC, located at 675 Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. The movie will feature a PG-rating. Suggested ticket price is a $3.00 minimum donation; all proceeds benefit the Autism Society of North Carolina.
More about Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company:
Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company (www.ashevillebrewing.com) has been a part of Asheville since 1995; there certainly would not be an Asheville Pizza & Brewing without Asheville, and Asheville simply wouldnāt be the same without APBC. The same spirit and support from the local community that helped them grow, inspires them to return the good will and to help others. They have been a supportive member of the community since their inception and have supported many non-profit organizations throughout Western North Carolina. For more information about APBC, please contact Lisa Leokum at 828-254-1281.
Background:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Recent studies estimate that up to 1 of every 70 children born in North Carolina will be affected by ASD.
For over forty years, the Autism Society of North Carolina has led efforts to address areas of need and expand services for the autism community in North Carolina. ASNC works to directly improve the lives of individuals affected by autism, by providing advocacy, education, and services.
Additional information is available by calling 1-800-442-2762 or by visiting www.autismsociety-nc.org. Locally, contact Simone Seitz at 828-236-1547, for more information about the April 20 event.