Junior Kelsey McCabe kicked off the Autism Speaks U benefit concert at Midnight Meals in Irazu with the staggering facts about autism.

“About one in every 68 children is diagnosed with autism,” McCabe said.

Started in 2008, Autism Speaks U is a campus organization that works to raise awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families and society.

“A lot of it, in terms of student participation, are things like the benefit concerts, but also bake sales and College Coffee tables,” McCabe said. “We also go to school gyms and play with kids with Down syndrome, autism and other disabilities, and we have babysitting things at night.”

The first benefit concert took place Feb.ruary 2013, but this year, because of all the snow and ice days, it was delayed until April, which is National Autism Awareness Month.

“Autism Speaks U is an organization that’s worth following because no one really ever truly knows what someone with special needs might be going through,” said junior Ethan Wing, who played guitar during the show. “It’s always good to get this sort of information out there and get some more support.”

The official color for autism awareness is blue, and many in attendance sported the color. There were free baked goods, pens, temporary tattoos, stickers and brochures with information about autism for all those who came.

The group will also help sponsor the “Face Off for Autism” lacrosse game at Rhodes Stadium on April 15, a “Rock Out Autism” band concert at Fat Frogg on April 23 and a panel discussion on autism on April 25.

“I actually came to Elon my freshman year wanting to do a benefit concert,” McCabe said. “I was in a band in high school and the drummer started this concert called ‘Rock Out Autism.’”

One of Elon’s co-ed a cappella groups, Vital Signs, opened the show with “Who’s Loving You,” “Brave” and “Pompeii.” The night also featured a few solo performers and Elon’s all-female a cappella group, Sweet Signatures.

“I heard about Autism Speaks U through a couple of events they did last year,” said junior Jenna Hokanson, who performed solo during the show. “Give Autism U as much attention as you can. They are a great organization here on campus, and they do a lot more than people think they do.”