Adults with autism exercise
BORDEAUX – Encouraging cheers ring out and smiles abound as people with autism play soccer at Old Parks.
People with autism from a Craighall Park-based non-profit organisation meet regularly to exercise at Old Parktonian Sports Club.
Encouraging cheers to ring out as some run and some walk a lap around the soccer field before practising kicking, dribbling and throwing drills to improve hand-eye coordination and control.
When it is time for a soccer game, the excitement levels reach new heights.
Those who speak coherently, call out for passes and praise the efforts of others.
But everyone smiles and thanks to the staff in their own way, for a day out in the sun.
The Adult Programme for People with Autism (APPA) rents a room at Rand Epileptic and Employment Agency (REEA) in Craighall Park.
Here, staff led by founder and director Yvette Young help about 14 autistic adults.
“I started the Adult Programme for People with Autism in 2015, with one staff member and two young adults with autism,” Young explained.
“We now have 14 members on our books, and there are four staff members and a part-time driver. APPA’s mission is to prepare and support young adults over the age of 18 for life outside of the schooling environment, by developing the skills and behaviours required for these adults to be able to maximise their potential, and to be able to better integrate into the communities in which they live.”
The non-profit aims to allow these people to experience a good quality of life despite their disability, which will also affect the quality of life of their families.
APPA has purchased a house in Blairgowrie and will start a residential/respite service for its members.
“This, combined with our day centre, will provide a full, round-the-clock service to our members and their families.”
Details: Adult Programme for People with Autism yvetteyoung@mweb.co.za
