Greensboro, N.C. - According to research conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, on average, one in 110 children are diagnosed with autism. With autism diagnoses rates rising, it is crucial that parents know that resources and support systems are available for the benefit of their child and family.

The Understanding Autism Conference organized by Guilford County's chapter of The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC-GC) is the first conference to provide such a service for a $20 admission. The conference is for both professionals who work with autistic children and families affected by autism.

The conference will be held on April 19 at the Greensboro Coliseum (1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro) from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. The $20 admission covers parking, lunch and admission to the conference.

"GCS classrooms have greatly benefitted from our close relationship with ASNC-GC," said Robin Drake, exceptional children's program administrator for autism. "All of their fundraising dollars benefit our students and teachers. Now with this conference, they are also giving great support to our families. We are proud of our partnership to make a difference in so many lives."

The goal of this gathering is to provide families with information about the local resources available in the community that will support them throughout their child's life span. During the conference, attendees will be able to participate in workshops on a variety of topics ranging from transition to adulthood, CAP (client assistance program), technologies that increase independence and behavior modification to name a few. Furthermore, approximately 30 businesses that cater to individuals and families dealing with autism will be present to provide information about local resources.