Eric and Tatum Crigger's oldest son is on the autism spectrum, which affects more than 3.5 million Americans of all ages.

Although their child is considered high functioning, goes to public school and maintains a mostly normal life, Eric Crigger said traditional medicine provides few solutions to the disorder.

"Early intervention is key," he told AL.com.

That's why the Criggers, who operate Rocket Republic Brewing Co. in Madison, plan to host a fundraiser the final week of April to support Autism Awareness Month.

From April 23-30, the craft brewery on 289 Production Ave. will donate a portion of its tap room proceeds to the Autism Society of Alabama (ASA). Rocket Republic will also hold a limited-edition T-shirt sale, where 100-percent of proceeds will benefit ASA.

"I promote the word 'spectrum' because it truly is a disorder that means something different for everyone with a loved one on the autism spectrum," Crigger said. " ... I think it's these people that have a lot to contribute to society in ways we don't all understand if more people understood what autism is."

Rocket Republic is open from 4-9 p.m. Wednesday to Thursday, 4-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2-7 p.m. Sunday. Check their Facebook page for updates.