Dear Members and Friends,
The goal
and/or mission of our program is to establish a center with recreational programs for individuals with autism and
related disorders where innovative ideas come together to enhance the lives of
individuals and their families. To build new friendships, promote learning,
community involvement and disability awareness. Someplace where the body, mind and spirit are supported in attaining their full potential,
allowing support for the family in healing and normalizing their lives to the
highest degree possible.
The Autism & Related Disabilities Gym
Program, Inc. is thriving and has achieved a non-profit status. Our account has
been set up and we have started to receive donations. Eventually we would like
to see enough volunteers present so that the families can have a strong support
group meeting in a separate room.
With future resources we would like to
enhance our existing recreation program with the following activities:
- Sponsored Swim Lessons
- Music therapy
- Dance therapy
- Art therapy
- Open play with a coach for more structured activities
- Field trips (Disney, Sea World, Discovery Cove, Zoo, Parks, etc..)
- Therapeutic riding
- Support group meetings (weekly) Autism news presentations (latest interventions, local resources, etc...)
- Fund-raisers
- Expanded outreach
We currently hold a "Special
Night for Special Parents Dinner" in the fall, which is made possible by
the Winter
Garden Elks Lodge #2165. This event is to honor the parents of our
special kids and provide a relaxing dinner, including prizes and entertainment.
This year, we will have an end of the year pool party as well as a December
holiday party in the pool area. Our recent fund raiser, a car wash, was very
successful. Future
event information will be sent as it becomes available.
Our
mailing list consists of approximately 300 families who are welcome to
participate whenever possible. As always, all disabilities, all ages, and all
family members are invited to attend. Although some families can only come once
in a while, everyone is always welcome to join in the fun anytime! If you would
like to add your name to our mailing address for either email or postal service
mail, please email your name and contact
information to us.
Thank you all so much and we are looking
forward to a program that will grow and benefit everyone!
Jo-Anne Houwers
Autism & Related Disabilities Gym Program, Inc.
407-234-7456 Cell
AutismGym@aol.com