Members of AYAA work hard to raise awareness for autism on campus, as well as in the Bridgeport and Fairfield communities. The club promotes anti-bullying and open-mindedness as two of the major themes of their mission. To support these themes the club hosts events on campus and mentors in the nearby communities.
“Being a part of the Are You Autism Aware Club gives each member so many opportunities to help out those that may be struggling in the education system or in lower-income communities. Every week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, members of AYAA club go to Geraldine W. Johnson Elementary School in Bridgeport, CT to play a role as a mentor to the students. As mentors, they keep the students involved and on task with their work, provide any support and help for the class, and provide assistance to the teachers in the classroom. AYAA holds fundraisers and puts out a voice to allow others to be autism aware and be able to know about what they can do to help out those in need. Having a role as a mentor and being a member of AYAA has allowed me to gain experience working with those who may not have as many opportunities as myself and meet some really amazing people that have made me become a better person as a whole.” -Gianna Conidi Class of 2023