Get Active For Autism, UK

Main Category: Autism
Article Date: 08 Jan 2010 - 6:00 PDT

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If your New Year resolutions are already fading fast, The National Autistic Society (NAS) may have the perfect opportunity to get back on track.

The UK's leading charity for people affected by autism is inviting people to join its 2010 active challenge team and raise vital funds to help and support people affected by autism. Whatever your ability there really is something for everyone, from 5k fun runs to 500k cycles.

Ella Moffat, NAS Fundraising Events Manager, said: "Lots of people make New Year resolutions to get fit and what better way to do it and do something really worthwhile at the same time? Last year we had over 970 supporters who raised an amazing £750k for the NAS. This year with your help, we could raise even more!"

Walk, jog, run or cycle in any organised event and as a valued member of the NAS team you'll receive training and fundraising support every step of the way.

Emily Beet, who completed the Royal Parks Half Marathon for the NAS in 2009, said: "When I originally signed up I wasn't known for my running talents or sporting prowess! But I'm proud to say that with a bit of hard work and determination I jogged the entire distance and raised over £2,000 for the NAS. I wasn't the quickest of runners, but wanted to do what I could to help make a difference to people affected by autism and support the work the National Autistic Society does for people like my son. I would urge anyone thinking of setting themselves a challenge for the New Year to go for it and choose the National Autistic Society!"

All funds raised through active challenges will be used to support NAS services including Advocacy for Education service, Befriending scheme, Parent to Parent support service and help! programme.

- £20 - will mean we can provide specialist one-to-one befriending support for one person with autism or a member of their family for a month

- £50 - will mean ten more people getting the understanding and help they need through our telephone support

- £100 - will help pay for a full diagnosis of a child at our internationally respected and renowned NAS diagnostic and assessment centre

- £200 - will mean one more adult meeting others, doing things, going places and feeling less isolated for a year at a NAS social group

For information on NAS active challenge events call the events team on 08450 509 001 or visit http://www.autism.org.uk/events

Notes

-- Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them. It is a spectrum condition, which means that, while all people with autism share certain difficulties, their condition will affect them in different ways. Some people with autism are able to live relatively independent lives but others may have accompanying learning disabilities and need a lifetime of specialist support. People with autism may also experience over- or under-sensitivity to sounds, touch, tastes, smells, light or colours.

-- Asperger syndrome is a form of autism. People with Asperger syndrome are often of average or above average intelligence. They have fewer problems with speech but may still have difficulties with understanding and processing language.

The National Autistic Society is the UK's leading charity for people with autism and their families. Founded in 1962, it continues to spearhead national and international initiatives and provide a strong voice for all people with autism. The NAS provides a wide range of services to help people with autism and Asperger syndrome live their lives with as much independence as possible.

The NAS relies on the support of its members and donors to continue its vital work for people with autism. To become a member, make a donation or to find out more about the work of the NAS, visit the NAS website http://www.autism.org.uk

The NAS Autism Services Directory is the UK's most comprehensive directory of services and events for people with autism. Visit http://www.autism.org.uk/autismdirectory to find autism services and support networks in your area.

Source
The National Autistic Society

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