The California State University, Stanislaus chapter of Alpha Xi Delta painted the campus blue as they raised awareness for autism. In honor of Autism Awareness Week, the sorority hosted daily events April 2-5.
The highlight of the week took place on the evening of Tuesday, April 3 at 7 p.m. when members of the sorority, along with fellow Warriors and local families, gathered to light up the quad.
Participants were able to place blue light sticks in decorated white paper bags, while crayons and markers were provided so each individual could decorate his or her own bag. Most people chose to incorporate the sorority’s Greek letters, as well as a blue puzzle piece which represents the national symbol for Autism Speaks, a national organization that helps aid research and support for autism and individuals affected by it. The blue light stick represented the color for autism.  
“The idea is we don’t really understand what autism spectrum disorder is and there’s like a missing puzzle piece to the fabric of what it is so if we can find what causes it, what are the symptoms, how to help these kids learn, we can send them to the proper schooling,” Leigh Puhek (junior, Pre-nursing), Philanthropy Chair of Alpha Xi Delta, said.
The organization continued its efforts to raise awareness throughout the week. On Monday, April 2,  Alpha Xi Delta held an Autism Awareness Day event in the quad where people could gather information on autism. Wednesday was the Support Autism Awareness event, and the events came to a close on Thursday evening with Karaoke for a Cause. For a $1 entry fee and $2 for each karaoke song played, people were able to gather in the Event Center to sing the night away for a cause.
“If nobody knows about it, nothing gets done,” Garrison Weekes (junior, History) said. “There’s no support or money for families.”
Donations to help support research for autism can be given to the group’s philanthropy, Autism Speaks. More information about autism can be found on their website at autismspeaks.org.