By Mark Squibb | Vol 8 No. 2 (Jan. 30, 2019)
The Autism Society Newfoundland and Labrador is holding a fundraiser concert on Feb. 8 at Spirit of Newfoundland to help raise funds for their Good Roots Gardening initiative.
“The whole goal of that operation is to provide employment for individuals with autism, and provide work experience and skills training,” explained Tess Hemeon, Chief Operating Officer.
One offshoot of the garden initiative is the Mobile Gardening Crew.
It gives those with autism a job tending office plants.
“They go in weekly, or bi-weekly, and water the plants. Which is an awesome experience because they get to see different workplaces, learn workplace etiquette, follow a schedule, and work as a team. So, we’re really trying to grow that,” said Hemeon. “It provides people who may otherwise have barriers to employment the opportunity to get out there, get into the community, and experience something new, and just really connect with workplaces that they might not otherwise be able to.”
Hemeon added that it’s good for clients as well, who learn more about autism.
The Society partners with many community groups and organization, and Hemeon said that one of the most long standing has been with the Mount Pearl Summit Centre.
“We have an amazing partnership with the Summit Centre, something totally different,” said Hemeon.
Over the last five years, over 300 people have learned to swim through special one-on-one swimming lessons offered in partnership with the Society and the Centre.
“For people with autism, water safety is a huge concern, so Mount Pearl does some pretty awesome work for us,” said Hemeon, noting that many may not be able to participate in a group swim class.
“We have an individual here who goes into the Summit Centre to teach them about autism and to teach them about teaching strategies that might work for them in the pool.”
