| |
Autism Society Nova Scotia Services
SUMMER DAY CAMP PROGRAM
This program began in 2002. It is designed for children ages 6-14 who have been diagnosed with ASD who are not successful in typical recreational programs due to their high needs. It offers one-to-one support to each camper and the program activities are recreational in nature. Camp is held in July and August in the HRM.
SUPPORT GROUPS
Support groups are designed to offer support to families in a variety of ways. This may be through opportunities to chat with other families or attend talks with a particular theme of interest. These groups currently exist in the Bedford-Sackville area. There are also independent groups in Truro, the Valley, Antigonish, and Cape Breton.
FAMILY OUTINGS
The ASNS offers events for the families and friends effected by autism. The society reserves pools for family swims, skating rinks, and bowling lanes. The ASNS also hosts Family Fun Days. The Bedford-Sackville group also offers family swims, fun days, and Christmas parties.
ADVOCACY
Personal advocacy is done on an ad hoc basis. Personal advocacy usually consists of advising families on directions they may wish to take when they are struggling with a particular issue.
General advocacy occurs to assist the autism community. This can be in the form of disucssions and presentations to government, bringing the needs of the community to the attention of the government. All advocacy must be within Canada Revenue Agency guidelines for charities.
EDUCATION
Education programs are given as requested to schools (personnel and students), day cares, day programs, summer camps, and recreation programs - anyone interested in autism. All education programs are given from a parental perspective. Currently these programs are delivered by the Executive Director. There are a variety of presentations developed according to audience.
AWARENESS
ASNS promotes awareness in the community through campaigns in shopping malls, banners, posters, and selling awareness items. The society also attends related conferences.
|
