For the ninth straight year, EMPACT is hosting its annual Autism Community Festival, a free event designed for neurodiverse individuals and their families. This year’s festival takes place Saturday, April 18, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Liberty Towers in Sacramento.
The event is held during Autism Acceptance Month and is described by organizers as sensory-friendly and family-focused. It brings together families, service providers, therapists, and community organizations for an afternoon of inclusion, resources, and celebration.
Leia Schenk, founder and CEO of EMPACT, started the festival nine years ago. She is also the mother of a 16-year-old autistic son, who was diagnosed at 18 months. Schenk told KCRA 3 that she struggled to take her son out in public, so she created a space where he would feel comfortable. That small community gathering has since grown into a major annual event.
What to expect
The festival includes sensory stations, quiet spaces for those who become overstimulated, and both indoor and outdoor activities. It runs rain or shine. Vendors will include therapeutic service providers, occupational and speech therapists, and other organizations that specialize in autism.
Why it matters:
Schenk says many families feel lost after a new autism diagnosis, not knowing what resources exist or who to call. The festival acts as a “one-stop shop” where families can connect directly with specialists without guesswork.
Parents can have confidence that everything is safe and conducive. There’s even an opportunity to meet other parents.
It’s free and open to the public. No registration is required, and tickets are not needed.
The CDC states that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
So, as you can imagine, this event is not only a place to feel acknowledged, but also a place where parents can bring their children to meet at least some of their peers, share creative ideas, and more. At Sacramento ABA Therapy, we offer the most caring and skilled, proven therapy for kids on the spectrum.
Contact us for a free consultation and see for yourself, because every child is entitled to opportunity, and every parent is entitled to peace of mind.
