Luxembourg Non-Profit Organisations, Companies to Mark World Autism Awareness Day

The Fondation Autisme Luxembourg (FAL) has announced its plans for World Autism Awareness Day, which is taking place on Wednesday 2 April 2025.

The foundation will be present on Place d'Armes in Luxembourg-Ville next Wednesday, alongside other partners such as Autisme Luxembourg asbl, Hasilux, Gefira and Tee's, which are similarly committed to social inclusion. From 10:00 to 17:00, each partner will present their project, as well as raising public awareness about autism issues and showcasing the various products made in their respective workshops. The Fondation Autisme Luxembourg described this as "a unique opportunity to discover our initiatives and learn more about the inclusion of people with autism in society".

Some companies and organisations will support this through the "Light It Up Blue" awareness-raising initiative. Confirmed participants at the time of writing include the Grand Ducal Palace, the CFL, ING, the Philharmonie Luxembourg and the Tricentenaire. By illuminating their buildings in blue, participants help draw attention to World Autism Awareness Day and the challenges faced by autistic people. Others are encouraging their employees to wear blue and post it on social media. According to the Fondation Autisme Luxembourg, "this action promotes inclusion, understanding and support for the autism community worldwide".

Ahead of World Autism Awareness Day, the Fondation Autisme Luxembourg also highlighted some of its own social and professional inclusion projects. These initiatives aim to promote the well-being of individuals regardless of their level of autonomy:

1. The "Kleinholz" project

To offer enriching and inclusive activities, particularly during the winter months, the foundation has created a workshop called "Kleinholz" in Munshausen. This project relies on the use of disposable wooden pallets donated by local businesses. Residents participate in a series of tasks such as collecting pallets, removing nails, sawing and storing wood. This initiative not only offers learning opportunities tailored to individual abilities, but also contributes to an ecological project by transforming wood waste into mulch for the foundation's gardens. The foundation added that it hopes to sell this product in local retail outlets in the long term. To support the growth of this project, the foundation is seeking donations to acquire the necessary equipment, such as cutting machines and safety equipment.

2. A social inclusion programme for adults with ASD without intellectual disabilities

The foundation has also launched a social inclusion support programme for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) without intellectual disabilities. This programme is aimed at young adults, who often struggle with finding housing, employment, or acquiring social skills. The programme offers practical workshops, both in groups and individually, aimed at developing social and professional skills such as managing social interactions, job searching and preparing for interviews. The project will take place over a period of eighteen months, with clear objectives of autonomy and professional integration.