Caitlin Wilson (third from right) poses with members of the Mantua committee. She was diagnosed with autism at 7 years old.
The Mantua Township Committee announced during its recent meeting that the month of April will be regarded as Autism Awareness Month in the community, as it is nationally.
The action was made official with a township proclamation, the first time the committee has done so, according to Mayor Robert Zimmerman. The document was presented to township resident Caitlin Wilson, who was diagnosed with autism at 7 years old.
“It is truly wonderful to see our township acknowledge the importance of autism awareness within our community,” she said. “Autism is a condition that affects many individuals and their families. By promoting awareness, education and acceptance, we create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.”
Wilson grew up with difficulty speaking and was told by a doctor that she would never be able to communicate, according to the township. Yet she managed to graduate from Clearview Regional High School in 2015 and enrolled in Rowan College of South Jersey’s Adult Center for Transition program to learn essential skills and find the right job.
That job turned out be an aide position at Shady Lane Childhood Development Center in East Greenwich, where she helped other kids with autism overcome the same issues she faced.
“Caitlin went through our K-6 and Clearview Regional school districts with my youngest daughter, Ashley,” Zimmerman noted. “Caitlin is not only a trailblazer, she is an absolute inspiration to our community. She has overcome so many obstacles in her young life, and is using her personal experiences to spread awareness and to help others with autism cope with those same obstacles.
“We are truly grateful for Caitlin’s efforts.”
With help from family and loved ones who were at the committee meeting, Wilson has helped raise awareness of autism through a number of organizations – including the National Alliance for Autism Research – and by holding events for people with special needs.
She and her family have hosted three New Year’s Eve parties at the Mantua VFW, and for her sweet 16 celebration, Wilson invited only students from Clearview’s special education program to create an atmosphere where neuro-divergent people could feel comfortable and welcomed without fear of judgement.
“Caitlin has fought a long, hard battle,” said her mother, Peg. “I wish that life was a little bit easier for her when she was a kid. If I could have stopped those challenges, I would have, but those challenges are what made her who she is today.”
