Human Development Center

HDC News

 
FASD is not rare. 1 in 20 people have FASD.

September is FASD Awareness Month

With 1 in 20 children estimated to have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) in the United States, FASD isn't rare. It's everywhere. We're joining FASD United to educate our communities about the risks associated with prenatal alcohol exposure, provide support to individuals and families affected by FASD, and combat stigma.

FASD is a range of conditions that can occur in individuals that were exposed to alcohol in the womb. These conditions can lead to lifelong physical, behavioral, and cognitive challenges, including difficulties with learning, memory, attention, and social interactions.

Recognizing the strengths, talents, and gifts that individuals with FASD bring to our communities is a great way to celebrate FASD Awareness Month. Follow along with us this month to learn more about how to support and advocate for individuals with FASD and their families.


Download Fact Sheets from FASD United

Learn more about FASD United

 

 

 

 
Give FASD A Seat At The Table

FASD 101 Lunch & Learn on Septemerber 29th

 

Join the Human Development Center for our FASD 101 webinar—a free, introductory session designed for professionals, families, and community members who want to better understand Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, healthcare provider, or advocate, this session will give you the foundation to recognize FASD and connect with helpful tools and services. Let’s build FASD-informed systems of care in Louisiana. 

Register for the virtual Lunch & Learn

Sep 29, 2025 at 12:00 PM

Hosted by Krista James, Ph.D.

Register here

 

 
FASD 101 Lunch ‘n Learn. Sep 29, 2025 at 12:00 PM Via Zoom. A free, introductory session designed for professionals, families, and community members who want to better understand Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Let’s build FASD-informed systems of care. Register today.

 

 

Awareness and Support Events

 

Spreading awareness of FASD helps combat stigma that prevents families from seeking the help they need. By promoting understanding and empathy, we can help create a more supportive environment for everyone affected by FASD.

Join HDC's Social Media Campaign on Facebook

Join HDC's Social Media Campaign on Instagram

Consider joining one of the following awareness opportunities:

 
Mother kisses baby. Text reads: Become FASD-informed. There is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Individuals with FASD have strengths that can be supported to help them thrive.

 

  • September 5-15: Move FASD

    Move FASD is a national series of local events, intended to gather our communities for FASD Awareness. Whether it’s a group of 5 people or 50 people, we are inviting local communities to join the movement. Activities can include anything that gets you moving your body: bean-bag toss, a 5k, a dance marathon, a yoga session… whatever gets you moving!
    Learn more about Move FASD and regsiter here.

     
  • Tuesday, September 9: FASD Awareness Day

  • Wednesday, September 10 at 11 AM CST: From Crayons to Caps & Gowns: Understanding FASDs Across the School-Age Spectrum
    This webinar will provide primary care clinicians with the tools they need to coordinate care for children with FASD from school-age to young adulthood. The session will focus on identifying and managing neurobehavioral and medical concerns at different developmental stages. Participants will learn about medical, therapeutic, and pharmaceutical considerations. Presenter: Adiaha Spinks-Franklin, MD, MPH, FAAP
    Register for the webinar via Zoom here
     
  • Friday, September 12 at 12 PM CST: Caregiver Support and Resource Navigation Group - $20

    Participants will help determine the themes and topics covered to best support their needs. Topics may include: Sharing the joys and challenges of caregiving for adults or youth transitioning into adulthood who have FASD or similar neurodiversity/disability; Exchanging ideas and sharing successes; Strengthening the caregiver-child relationship through a better understanding of your youth or young adult; Caregiver resource systems navigation (employment, disability services, financial, medical, educational); Supporting transitions and helping to navigate changes in school, employment, life, and daily routines; Supporting employment, interpersonal skills, recreation, friendships, relationships, regulation, and interdependence; Managing caregiver fatigue and avoiding burnout.

    Facilitated by Parent Consultant and now retired Key Worker Coordinator Jill Crichton with additional support provided by practicum student clinicians Jasleen Mann and Dana Patterson.

    Learn more about the Support Group


  • Saturday, September 13: Self-Advocate Support Group
    The FASD Collaborative Project hosts several support groups and educational sessions. Register to attend the FASD Never Alone support group with Miranda Bezell
    Email host to register for the FASD Never Alone support group at mandy-gcorp@hotmail.com