Charlotte firefighters fundraise to make impact for autism

Today is the 14th annual World Autism Awareness Day and the Charlotte Fire Department recognized the day in a big way helping a local nonprofit organization.

Charlotte firefighter Nathanael Powell and members from his station, (CFD Station 42) organized a fundraiser selling tee shirts.

In just over a month, these firefighters sold 947 shirts totaling $7,650.

This morning, Powell was joined by fellow firefighters and Chief Reginald Johnson to present the check to Child & Family Development.

Established in 1980, Child and Family is a service provider for assessing the needs of children and establishing recommended treatment plans.

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 54 children in the United States today.

The donation will help assist families in need with their financial obligations.

If you have an inspiring story to share, email Kevin Campbell, WSOC-TV/WAXN-TV/Telemundo Charlotte public affairs manager, at Kevin.Campbell@wsoctv.com.

Cox Media Group