April 2, 2015

What is Autism? Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a group of complex developmental brain disorders caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. ASD are characterized by: Social Challenges Communication Difficulties Repetitive Behaviors

What’s unique about this initiative? What is Light It Up Blue? Autism Speaks’ campaign to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day and Autism Awareness Month What’s unique about this initiative? Each year on April 2nd, iconic landmarks, hotels, sporting venues, concert halls, museums, schools, universities, bridges, retail stores, and thousands of homes light blue to honor the millions of individuals around the world impacted by autism. Light It Up Blue not only raises global awareness about the importance of early diagnosis, early intervention and comprehensive government action, but also celebrates the unique talents and abilities of the millions of individuals around the world living with autism.

2014 LIUB in Review Over 10,000 Buildings and Blue Events 136 Countries 1600 University lighting and events Over $10,000,000 raised 2.5 million visitors to the website 60 million impressions on Facebook Over 100 million impressions on Twitter Over 1000 articles published in March and April Key Strategic Partnerships Individual Stories

Chicago Skyline Burj Al Arab Aspen Mountain Empire State Building Sydney Opera House

Opportunities for Corporate Involvement Light up your building(s) blue using blue filters or gels (the Autism Speaks Blue PMS color is 279 and the RGB color is R:80, G:145, B:205.) Order Light It Up Blue supplies from Autism Speaks to create a visual display within your building(s) or Landmark(s) such as posters, window clings, etc. Consider organizing media events with Autism Speaks, like a ceremonial flipping of the switch to provide a visual display and entice media coverage. Purchase Autism Speaks lapel pins for building staff to wear throughout April. Include a mention about Light It Up Blue in your elevator banks, e-newsletters, or on your website/ Facebook page. Make a financial contributions. Many properties and landmarks show support for Autism Speaks by incorporating a fundraising component.

Partnership Benefits Positive public image by supporting a cause that greatly affects communities across the U.S. Cost effective philanthropic decision – e.g. lighting the entire John Hancock building in Chicago cost under $2,000 Opportunity to educate employees about the fastest growing developmental disorder Demonstrating support for staff members and colleagues who are affected by autism Boosting morale among employees Raising awareness to change the future for the 1 in 68 with autism