Concerned parents, grandparents and members of the community recently gathered for an Autism interest meeting.

The number of children with autistic disabilities is rising in the United States. Yet, the experts aren't sure why. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now estimates that one in 100 children has been diagnosed with autism. The previous estimate was one in 150 children. The CDC reviewed the education and health records of eight-year-olds in selected cities. Meanwhile, the 2007 National Survey of Children's Health conducted a telephone survey and came up with its estimate of one in 91 children, ages 3 to 17.

While attending the meeting in September, the Richmond County group decided to form a chapter based on the need here in the county. On hand to speak to the group was guest speaker, Ann Palmer, director of chapter relations for the Autism Society of North Carolina. She spoke to the group about the history of ASNC, starting a Chapter, the needs of Richmond County families and recruiting volunteers for the chapter.

The next meeting of the Richmond County chapter will be held Oct. 24 at 10 a.m. at FirstHealth Richmond Memorial Hospital in the auditorium. For more information on the Richmond County Chapter for Autism or how to get involved, contact Emily Tucker at 895-9058 day or 557-5071 nights.