In case you missed the news last week, an update in from Louise Foley. In her own words. Ed
Celebrating 50 years of the National Autistic Society and to mark World Autism Awareness Day, the NAS IOW branch have organised a very special fundraising event where many schools and small groups will be given the opportunity to take part in the build of a 50ft (15 metres) Lego ladder.
40,000 Lego bricks are going to be used to build a 75 step ladder to reach up to the top of the Drill Tower at Ryde Fire Station.
They have set up a Sponsor a Brick scheme for individuals, families and local businesses. Anyone interested in taking part check the website or call 07827 308768.
All schools invited to take part
Letters have gone out to all schools and the first twenty five to reply will be given the opportunity to come and collect a box of Lego along with a step by step guide on how to build a section.
The NAS IOW branch have also organised a series of build workshops at the Riverside Centre on 17th and 24th March. Spaces are limited and will need to be booked through the website.
Most exciting event yet
Louise Foley, NAS IOW branch officer said “This is without doubt the most exciting and somewhat challenging fundraising event I have ever organised on the Isle of Wight. I have so many people to thank for making this possible including all those who voted for our NatWest CommunityForce award which has made sure we have enough money to make our Reaching High for Autism project a reality.
“I am also thrilled to have been given the opportunity to work with Duncan Titmarsh of Bright Bricks who is the only UK Lego certified builder. Duncan has made sure that our 50ft Lego ladder is going to be safe and will be looking after the overall build.
“We now have 40,000 Lego bricks that are looking for a Sponsor and we’re hoping our local community will help us to achieve our target as many families and individuals have said they would like to have an Autism Resource Centre on the Isle of Wight. Autism is a spectrum condition and includes Asperger syndrome and is much more common than most people think, there are an estimated 1,400 people with autism living on the Isle of Wight, the majority living with the support of family carers. The right support at the right time can make a huge difference.”
A JustGiving page has been set up, or using JustText Giving anyone can Text RHFA50 to 70070 to sponsor a brick for any amount from £1 upwards
Embracing social media
They have set up a Twitter account @RH4Autism and a Reaching High for Autism facebook group for anyone to follow or join in the fun of spreading the word and keeping up to date with all that is happening. They’ve even set up an AudioBoo account to give children and families the chance to record and send personal messages.
Gill and Marcus Elsom who run the Saturday Lego club for children on the autistic spectrum, have organised a special session later this month where all of the children attending will be building a section of the ladder. Gill said “This is a fantastic project and it’s so exciting for the children and their families to be involved. Lego has been really successful in helping children with autism play together and improve their social communication skills”
Lego donated to schools after event
After this event the NAS IOW Branch would like to donate a box of Lego to all schools that have supported the project so that they can start up their own Lego club.
On Saturday 3rd March, members of the Vectis Remnant Squad will also be involved in the launch of the very exciting Reaching High for Autism project. They are planning to hit the High Streets in Cowes, Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin, Yarmouth and Newport by handing out flyers and collecting donations.
