Dads with kids on autism spectrum focus of virtual UNC conference this month

Dads who have kids with autism spectrum disorder will be the focus during the UNC Autism Fathers Conference later this month.

The UNC Autism Research Center is organizing the three-hour virtual event, which takes place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Jan. 23.

Actor Joe Mantegna, who currently stars in "Criminal Minds" on CBS, will be the keynote speaker. Mantegna, who plays FBI Special Agent David Rossi, will share his experience as the father of a young adult with ASD.

The event will cover the unique parenting challenges that dads can face when their child has autism. Participants will come away with more information, access to resources and more.

Registration costs $10. More information is on the website for the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute.