Scouts sponsor "An Evening with Jesse Saperstein"

WARWICK — Bullying is an issue for many kids, but when you're different, even just a little bit, bullying can be a constant nightmare. Kids on the autism spectrum certainly run into their share of bullying. They have a huge ally, though, in Jesse Saperstein.

Boy Scout Troop 45 of Warwick, along with Parents Run AMOC and the Mental Health Association in Orange County, Inc., are sponsoring a special event, "An Evening with Jesse Saperstein," on Monday, April 29.

Saperstein is a motivational speaker, best-selling author and autism advocate. And he knows from where he speaks. Saperstein has Asperger's syndrome, a mild form of autism. Diagnosed at 14, he struggled with many of the hallmark challenges of his condition, from social awkwardness and self-doubt to extreme difficulty in dealing with change and managing his emotions.

His book, "Atypical: Life with Asperger's in 20 1/3 Chapters," was published in 2010. In it, Saperstein puts a human face on Asperger's and makes his readers laugh, empathize and better understand what it means to see the world through the prism of autism.

Saperstein will address raising awareness of the difficulties faced by individuals with invisible disabilities, like autism, as they participate in community activities. He will discuss the effect of bullying on individuals and the entire community.

Kids and adults are all invited to this event, which will be held at the Warwick United Methodist Church, 135 Forester Ave., Warwick. Admission to the event is a non-perishable food item which will be donated to the local food pantry.

To reserve your seat, call 845-342-2400, ext. 253.