Taking ‘action’ to bring joy

IN line with observing World Disability Day on Monday, 3 December, Action in Autism, a lobbyist, support and fundraising non profit organisation for people with autism and their families hosted a party.

Held on Saturday, 1 December the aim of the party was to celebrate children living with autism. Chairperson of the Action in Autism board and one of the founding members Lisa Aziz said: “Our aim for hosting this event is providing a space for autistic children and their families where they can be free. Most people are still not fully educated about autism which makes them react awkwardly when they have to interact with people living with it in public spaces. Here we want our children and their families to feel free and to go wild and crazy without being judged or frowned upon.” 

Also read: Help Josh make a splash for charity 

The annual observance of the International Day of Disabled Persons was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992. It aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development, and to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

Even though Action in Autism has been operational since 2005, its Durban North centre was officially launched in July this year.  It provides free support, advice, research and information to autistic people and their families.

Gugu Mnguni – a mother to an autistic child said they are thankful for these kinds of events.

“I never miss this party for anything in the world. Our children are happy and you can see it in their eyes that they are also comfortable. As parents we’re truly grateful to Action in Autism,” she said. 

The centre also has an early intervention and therapy programme for autistic children aged between two and six years.

Aziz went in to say,”It’s always wonderful to see our children happy and care-free. We’d like to thank all our sponsors and staff who made this event a success.”

For more from Northglen News follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram