The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services invite residents to the 2026 Autism Acceptance Celebration and Resource Fair, taking place on Saturday, April 25th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Turf Field in Warinanco Park, Roselle. The annual event is held in April to recognize Autism Acceptance Month, spread awareness, and celebrate individuals experiencing autism and other sensory sensitivities.
“Events such as our Autism Acceptance Fair provide an opportunity for residents to come together and celebrate the unique strengths and abilities of individuals living with autism. They also serve as an opportunity for sharing challenges and learning more about the resources and supports available. By educating ourselves, we break away from the fear and stigma that surrounds autism and further strengthen the supportive and inclusive community Union County is known for, and where everyone feels accepted,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “Join us for a fun day making new memories and celebrating our loved ones. I hope to see everyone on the field.”
The 2026 Autism Acceptance Celebration & Resource Fair is a superhero-themed celebration, and attendees are encouraged to dress up in their favorite superhero costumes. The event will feature a variety of fun outdoor activities, including a live DJ, touch-a-truck experience, games, giveaways, and light refreshments. While attendance at the Autism Acceptance Celebration is always free, pre-registration is required. To register, visit ucnj.org/opdsn-reg or call 908-527-4781.
“Elizabeth Public Schools is proud to partner with the Union County Board of County Commissioners and other great departments and organizations within Union County to support families affected by autism,” said Superintendent Dr. Olga Hugelmeyer. “Our schools are built on the promise of every child achieving excellence and a shining example of that promise being fulfilled is the students of our autism program whose successes are truly inspiring. It is a great honor to celebrate their uniqueness and recognize their exceptional growth and development with the greater community. Thank you all who makes this wonderful event possible!”
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental disability marked by unique sensory sensitivities, challenges in social and communication skills, and other behavioral traits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that approximately 1 in 14 adults and 1 in 31 children nationwide are affected by autism. In New Jersey, the statistics show that 1 in 29 children is diagnosed with ASD, highlighting the importance of community awareness and understanding of the neurological condition.
The County of Union invites residents to join in observing World Autism Awareness Day on Thursday, April 2nd, by wearing blue to show their support and acceptance for the millions of individuals around the globe affected by autism. On this day, Union County will illuminate the front of the courthouse in blue and invite residents to join in by lighting up their homes blue as well.
“We firmly believe that having a great support system, both at home and in the community, empowers individuals living with autism and other sensory challenges – especially children – to live safe, happy, and healthy lives,” said Union County Commissioner Stanley J. Neron, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “We would also like to thank the exceptional local organizations that have partnered with us. The expression ‘it takes a village’ truly reflects the spirit of this collaboration. This event would not have achieved its significant positive impact on the autism community in Union County without their hard work and contributions.”
The 2026 Autism Acceptance Celebration is brought to you by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Department of Human Services through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, and in collaboration with the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, The Sergio Granados Foundation, Prevention Links, the Elizabeth Parent Support Group, Elizabeth Public Schools and its Division of Special Services, and Elizabeth Fire & EMS.
For more information about the Autism Acceptance Celebration and Resource Fair, or other events and programs hosted by the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, call 908-527-4781 or visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn.
To learn more about events and programs offered through the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs/.