International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day

September 9th is FASD Awareness Month. First celebrated in 1999, FASD day is devoted to raising awareness of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) to improve prevention of FASD and diagnosis and support for individuals with FASD. This year’s FASD Awareness Month theme, “Everyone Plays a Part: It Takes a Community,” highlights the power of collective support in creating a society where individuals with FASD and their families can thrive. Supporting people with FASD and promoting alcohol-free pregnancies is a shared responsibility. When we work together, we create environments where people feel supported, valued, and able to succeed. This year’s theme celebrates the strength, connection, and belonging that communities create. By learning, supporting one another, and sharing knowledge, communities can help individuals with FASD across their lifespan and promote healthy pregnancies.

At Sunbeam, our FASD Coordinators support youth up to age 18 (21 if still in school) and their families as they navigate services and supports related to FASD. Services include assistance with the FASD diagnostic process and referrals to regional diagnostic clinics, confirming prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE), referrals and consultations to community resources, community education and training, caregiver and service provider education, and ongoing support to families in community-based settings. The team also collaborates with FASD Coordinators across Ontario to share resources, knowledge, and best practices. As active members of Plexus, Waterloo Region’s single point of access for FASD, and participants in numerous local and provincial committees and communities of practice, Sunbeam staff work to strengthen supports for individuals and families across the region.

Over the past year, the team has been proud to represent the region as presenters and panelists at the CanFASD International FASD Conference in Toronto and to work alongside Waterloo Regional Police Services to develop and implement FASD training for sworn members, a program that has since been shared across Canada.

As we recognize FASD Awareness Month, we celebrate the strengths, resilience, and contributions of individuals living with FASD and reaffirm our commitment to supporting families through education, advocacy, collaboration, and service coordination. Families can connect with Sunbeam’s FASD program by contacting us at plexusfasd@sunbeamcommunity.ca and can find additional resources and information through Plexus FASD. You can learn more at: https://canfasd.ca/fasd-awareness-month/everyone-plays-a-part/