Postponed: April 15, 2023, Shine Brighter Together event re-scheduled due to rain The new date for the event is April 30, 2023, 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Montgomery Parks, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, is hosting Shine Brighter Together, a free special event to promote autism acceptance.
Per Montgomery Parks: There will be hands-on, sensory-friendly activities, performances, exercise demos, arts and crafts, storytellers, and more to do while learning about autism and the variety of resources available in Montgomery County from local organizations and agencies. Food will be available for purchase from Fly Pizza Truck and Festival Concessions or bring a picnic to enjoy. Participants can also help decorate “Buddy Benches” that will remain at select Montgomery Parks.
Buddy Benches were invented to combat loneliness and bullying in schools, playgrounds, and parks. It is a way for individuals to signal to others that they are feeling lonely and isolated and need a friend to play with or someone to talk to. The bench allows others to clearly see when another needs support or a friend, and they can join them on the bench for a chat or invite them to play.
What: Shine Brighter Together: Autism acceptance event
When: Saturday, April 15 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Rain date: Sunday, April 30)
Where: Wheaton Regional Park, 2000 Shorefield Road, Wheaton
Partner organizations include:
- Montgomery Parks Police Special Operations
- Montgomery County Department of Recreation
- Montgomery County Police Autism/IDD Unit
- City of Rockville Recreation and Parks
- City of Gaithersburg Parks, Recreation and Culture
- City of Takoma Park
- Montgomery County Public Library System
- The Arc of Maryland
- The Arc Montgomery County
- xMinds
Organizations providing activities and resources include:
- ArtStream
- Howard County Autism Society
- Jubilee Association of Maryland
- MDTAP
- Maryland ABLE
- Spirit Club
- Vicki’s MasCharade
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