Community members will have the opportunity to chat with nationally recognized autism expert Areva Martin during the City’s free Movie of Character event on Sunday, October 16. Martin, a special-needs advocate and frequent guest on the “Dr. Phil” show, will speak after the 2 p.m. screening of “Temple Grandin.”
The event is part of a free movie series sponsored by the City’s Community of Character Committee.
Martin is author of “The Everyday Advocate: Standing Up for Your Autistic Child.” She is also co-founder of the Special Needs Network, a nonprofit launched to support families with special needs children.
Singer, songwriter and actress Sarah Lonsert, 18, will follow Martin’s presentation delighting audience members of all ages with a moving performance. The talented 18 year old has earned several awards including the 2009 LA Music Awards for Best Singer/Songwriter of the Year for her song “Romeo.” That same year, she also took first place in the International Songwriting Competition for her song “Dancing Through Life.” Lonsert was the 2010 keynote speaker at the City’s Walk Against Drugs and has partnered with Mission Viejo Police Services in several anti-bullying programs for students and parents. She has worked hard to overcome autism and her success is inspiring.
The movie “Temple Grandin” is based on the true story of an autistic teenage girl whose unique skills and talent revolutionized practices for the humane handling of cattle in the United States. Throughout her school career, Temple’s mother insisted that even though her daughter is different, she should be treated with respect. Actress Claire Danes garnered a Golden Globe in 2010 for her portrayal of this extraordinary young woman.
The PG-rated film will be shown on a theater-size screen with theater-style seating and surround-sound. This free event takes place in City Hall, 200 Civic Center, just across from the Mission Viejo Library.
