The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 1 in 88 children has been identified with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affecting over two million people around the country and tens of millions worldwide; a ten-fold increase in prevalence in 40 years. Research suggests that the increase is only partly explained by improved diagnosis and awareness. As ASD continues to gain a grip on our children, a movement to fight back also continues to gain momentum.The 4th Annual Love Shine Benefit Festival will take place Labor Day weekend in Yorkville, IL, raising awareness and support in an effort to understand and end ASD by working with Hope Shine; a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that educates and empowers families affected by autism. The 3-day, family-friendly event will feature music that ‘breaks down borders,’ along with free camping, parking, Wi-Fi, and other great amenities.Guitarist, composer, producer, and music educator Eric Lambert will be performing at the benefit festival on Friday, August 30. “I’m thrilled to have been asked to participate in this great event and help increase awareness,” Eric shared. “Autism affects so many people, including some of my friend’s children. As a society, it’s important to step up and help each other,” he said.Eric Lambert & Friends will be wrapping up the first night of the festival with a late-night set that begins at 12:30 am, following a great day of music. Other acts will include Jaik Willis, Thinner Teed, Herbert Wiser, and many more.Eric Lambert has been pickin' and grinnin' his way into people's hearts for over 40 years. Specializing in the fiery art of flatpicking, he has built a distinguished career writing, performing, recording, and teaching Americana music in and around Chicago, IL and beyond. Traces of rock, folk, bluegrass, country, and blues can be detected throughout his music, delivered with energy, soul, and inspiration. His voice, presence, and precision moves audiences to their feet, while his playful spirit and warm sense of joy makes people feel right at home.The Love Shine Festival takes place Labor Day weekend at Hide-Away-Lakes campground in Yorkville, IL. The private campground comes with a lot of free resources including flush toilets, hot showers, Wi-Fi in some areas, swimming pool, electricity in many campsites, a playground for children, the Fox River with free canoeing if you bring your own canoe or raft (otherwise $5 to use theirs) and fishing (catch and release policy for their lakes and no restrictions for Fox River.) Some other amenities include affordable laundry mat, general store, and full hookup for RVs. Admission is $50 and includes parking and camping.Our children are our future, and together, we can make a difference! Join us at the Love Shine Benefit Festival and help us pick a fight with autism in support of those who need it. For further details and tickets, visit www.loveshinefestival.org.Ticket link: http://loveshinefestival.org/tickets/