​Boca Raton, FL – October 9, 2009 –  The United States Department of Health and Human Services released the results of a National Survey of Children's Health revealing that 1 of every 91 children has an autism spectrum disorder, that is 1% of American kids today.  The number of children affected by autism and various other developmental, communication, and learning disorders continues to increase at an alarming rate which significantly impacts our educational institutions serving these children, as well as their families and communities.

As a society, we must ensure that the appropriate supports, programs, and services are available to allow children and young adults opportunities to lead happy and productive lives.  Unicorn Children's Foundation (UCF) and Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC) will host an innovative day-long conference on Saturday, October 17th, 2009 to inform and instruct parents and professionals on strategies to help these individuals overcome the challenges they experience.  Survive-Or…Inform, Instruct, Inspire will take place from 9am-5pm at the Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton campus.

Presentations from nationally-recognized and local professionals will educate participants on practical, best practice strategies and tools to address these specific issues that may impede an individual’s ability to reach their maximum potential.  Topics will span across a child’s lifecycle, from educational and behavioral issues to sexuality and transition to adulthood.  Keynote presenter, Ari Ne’eman, recently featured in Newsweek, is an autistic adult and has been active in the autistic culture and disability rights movements for a number of years.  He first became involved in self-advocacy as a high school student, arguing for his own inclusion and access to a high level academic education. 

UCF's Executive Director, Sharon Alexander, says, "We are so grateful to have the support of community partners FDDC, TD Bank, Bloomingdale’s, and Butterfly Effects that allow us to share very important information at a very nominal cost.  Our goal is to help families move beyond simply surviving day-to-day experiences."  Cost is $20 for Unicorn members and $35 for non-members.  Membership with Unicorn is free of charge.  Some scholarships in honor of Agnes Nolan and Belle Margolis are available for parents to attend.  Continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for educators at an additional $9 fee.   Continental breakfast and lunch is included in the registration fee.   Individuals can register by calling the UCF office: 561-620-9377 or visiting www.unicornchildrensfoundation.org/survive-or.htm.   

The Unicorn Children's Foundation is an international, non-profit organization dedicated to education, awareness, and research on behalf of children with communication and learning disorders.  This 4th Annual Education Conference is sponsored by United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Developmental Disabilities and the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council.   For more information, please call Sharon Alexander, Executive Director/Director of Programs, 561-620-9377