On Saturday, March 7, the 12th annual Southern Maine Autism Conference took place at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in South Portland.

Over 500 individuals with autism and their parents, educators, and providers came together for a day of learning, resources, and laughter.

According to the 2019 Maine Kids Count report, 2,824 children in Maine have autism, which is almost triple the number of students who were diagnosed with autism when the conference first began.

WMTW interviewed Noel Sullivan, President & CEO of Pine Tree Society about what the conference provides. Watch their story here.

WGME spoke with Stevie Bonnevie, Marketing Associate of Pine Tree Society about the need for this conference in the community. Read their story here.