January is my least favorite month. Christmas is over. Days are short. College football’s regular season is finished.

Perhaps for other reasons, many people put January in the cellar too.

However, for one evening in January 2019, the dreariness of the month will be pushed aside for a unique event that will be greatly assist children in our community.

The West Georgia Autism Foundation’s First Annual “Snow Ball” will be held at the beautiful Oak Lawn on Rome Street in historic Carrollton on Jan. 12, 2019.

During the past 18 months, our community has become collectively aware of the once hidden issue of autism and its impact on our state.

Local corporations, small businesses, individuals, law enforcement and other foundations have fully supported the WGAF (serving Carroll, Coweta, Troup, Douglas, Haralson, Paulding, Cobb and other counties) during this period and have made the foundation the leader in (1) promoting autism awareness and (2) educating the community about autism related issues.

Now is the time to ignite the third function of the foundation — providing financial support to qualifying families who cannot afford to provide treatment, counseling, or other critical services for their children with autism.

Many children with autism will grow up and be dependent on other people and the government.

However, some children, who would otherwise be dependent, can become more or fully self-sufficient if they obtain treatment at a young age.

Unfortunately, a large number of families in west Georgia do not have the financial resources to help their autistic children.

The 2019 Snow Ball will mark the day when that number begins its annual decline.

A brave 12-year-old boy with autism will give his first public speech. He is already working on it, though he will not allow his nosy father to see his notes.

The WGAF is grateful that to have already received funds and commitments from many in the community for the Snow Ball. However, there are several sponsor spots, tables and individual tickets yet to be purchased.

Anyone who would like to contribute, can go to Wgaautism.org or contact Dr. Harry Nelson  at (678) 357-0541 or email harry.nelson.wgaf@gmail.com.

Thank you for supporting the WGAF and we look forward to seeing you in January.