PORTLAND — According to latest statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 68 children is born in the U.S. with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is conservatively estimated that nearly 1.5 million people in the United States today have some form of autism, the third most common developmental disability — even more common than Down’s Syndrome.

Despite its prevalence, the majority of the public, including many professionals in the medical, educational and vocational fields, are still unaware of how autism affects people, and how to work effectively with individuals with autism.

In recognition of April being Autism Awareness month, Spurwink is proud to present the Sprout Touring Film Festival, which showcases a variety of memorable films by, for and about people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, including autism. Admission is free for all screenings, and donations are accepted gratefully.

Schedule:

Screenings: Program 1, 11 a.m.; Program 2, 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 14, at Woodfords Church, 202 Woodford St., Portland.

Screenings: Program 1, 2 p.m.; Program 2, 7 p.m., Wednesday, April 15, Lincoln Auditorium, University of Maine at Farmington.

Screenings: Program 1, 11 a.m.; Program 2, 6:30 p.m., Thursday, April 16, Franco Heritage Center, 46 Cedar St., Lewiston.

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