NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – Niagara Men's Basketball will host its annual Autism Awareness Game on Sunday, February 15, highlighting inclusion, acceptance and community partnership. This year, the Purple Eagles are proud to partner with The Summit Center in Getzville, N.Y.

Niagara has been building a relationship with The Summit Center since 2020, and Sunday's game will celebrate that ongoing partnership and the meaningful work The Summit Center does for children, adults and families throughout Western New York.

"Sports bring people together and this Autism Awareness Game is about more than what happens on the court. It is about inclusion, acceptance and building a strong community. At Niagara, we believe in valuing people for who they are. Through our long partnership with The Summit Center, we have seen firsthand the amazing impact they've had on individuals and families on the autism spectrum. This game is a great way to recognize that work and help more people better understand, appreciate and support the autism community."

As part of the game day experience, Niagara's coaches and staff will wear autism awareness shirts to show their support and help raise awareness. Children from The Summit Center will also take part in special activities, including joining the team on the court as players come out of the tunnel, assisting with starting lineup introductions and touring the locker room.

About Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction and behavior. It is described as a "spectrum" because individuals experience autism in different ways and to varying degrees.

Common characteristics may include differences in social communication, sensory sensitivities, repetitive behaviors or highly focused interests. Autism is a lifelong condition, but with early identification and appropriate supports, individuals can make meaningful progress in communication, learning, independence and overall quality of life.

It is also important to recognize that autism brings strengths. Many individuals on the spectrum demonstrate strong attention to detail, honesty, creativity and deep knowledge in areas of personal interest.

About The Summit Center

For more than 50 years, The Summit Center has served Western New York as a not-for-profit human services agency with a mission to "maximize life success for people facing developmental, social and behavioral challenges." The organization is one of the region's leading providers of autism and behavioral health services.

Each year, The Summit Center serves more than 1,000 children and adults through a comprehensive continuum of care, including:

• Early Intervention and education programs, including Summit Academy for students ages 3–21

• Behavioral health and clinical services

• Community support and respite programs

• Adult services, including supported employment and vocational programming

• The WNY Regional Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, which provides training, resources and workshops for families, educators and professionals

The Summit Center services are rooted in evidence-based practices, particularly Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and emphasize collaboration with families, schools and community partners to promote long-term success.

Niagara Men's Basketball is proud to use Sunday's Autism Awareness Game as an opportunity to celebrate awareness, inclusion and to support an organization that continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families across the community.