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.
Established in 1980, Child and Family is a service provider for assessing the needs of children and establishing recommended treatment plans.
This morning, Powell was joined by fellow firefighters and Chief Reginald Johnson to present the check to Child & Family Development.
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.