---

 

 

Now, A Word From The Chapter President...

 

 

 Visions for 2008

As we bring 2007 to an end and look ahead to 2008, I reflect back on all the changes that have taken place within our group, changes that have made us stronger and brought more awareness in our area.

Our main mission is to provide opportunities and promote support to individuals within the autism spectrum and their families. It is my New Years resolution to help continue on this course.

We will be providing opportunities for educators to obtain the materials they need by offering the James P. Garrison Educational Grants. A total of  twenty –one grants will be given to educators and agencies that provide educational experiences for those on the spectrum. Another way we help in providing opportunities, is to help in awareness of activities that those on the spectrum can participate in such as YMCA, Odell Sports (Autism Awareness All-Stars), Cabarrus County Gymnastics, and Special Olympics.

 

Finally our newsletter and website will also have activities within the community that those with autism and their families can enjoy.

The last and most important part of our mission is to provide support. Our parent advocates play an important role in this goal. They can help families find resources, be an advocate in IEPs, and they are parents of children and teens on the spectrum so they can lend a listening ear with understanding.

 

We as a chapter also will incorporate time in the meetings for support. If you want to tell your story or have had a difficult day we want to be able to listen and work together in making the road of autism smoother.. My hope is to continue to grow along this course.

 

If you have ideas or suggestions feel free to contact us.