Advocacy and Public Awareness
EVERYONE CAN RUN
Fun Run on 17 Jan 2016
The Fun Run was a means to raise fud and pulic awareness on the diverse community it serves. The main aie of the event was to ensure it was inclusive. It is very gratifying to see participants that include the hearing impaired and the learning disabled coming together with other members of the public to run and support the cause.
At hand to flag off the runners were local celebrities Alex Yoong and Daphne Iking for the respective 9.5km and 5km run.
To put everyoe in a dance mood, Zumba, the Latin American inspired aerobic fitnes programme, was featured after the run. Besides lucky draw prizes, each participant received a medal and goodie bag at the event which wa co sponsored by, among others, 1Utama, Navis, MyRaceOnline, Ultron, Prance Communication and Shucked Oyster & Seafood Bar.
The runners were treated to Bake With Dignity's pandan and chocolate muffins while a social enterprise called Sisterhood, provided games for the children.
Empowering Individuals and Families in Dusun, Sabah
Ivy Philp visited Dusun in February and the community made a specific request for some input on Learning Disabilities as many parents with children with learning disabilities were struggling on their own with no support available.
There are already other NGO s involved in projects relating to child education and the plan is to collaborate with these agencies and use the volunteers from the religious groups currently involved to initiate basic programmes to develop individuals with disabilities, their families and the community leaders so that the community of persons with learning disabilities will be better supported.
UNICEF – WEspeak code WORKSHOP
Four Options members participated at this day conference. They learnt the basic codes which was later used to design game for themselves
Leadership by Parents
A preliminary meeting initiated by a group of parents took place in March 2015 with an approach to sharing common understanding of Autism and the different needs and services available. A discussion took place on the challenges faced, gaps in services and immediate plans for improvement.
The intention is to work together with a group of parents and volunteers from various NGO to explore the support, services, employment and independent living for adults with learning disabilities, especially Autism Spectrum Disorder in Malaysia.
