creating a better future for adults with autism ANNUAL REPORT 2009 / 2010
Alpha is strongly committed to enabling community inclusion for all our participants, and our Annual Report is an important document in communicating this vision. As such, Alpha believes our activities should be aspirational, delightful and desirable.
We are very grateful to TBJ Creative, Impact Digital Printers and Christopher Howard, whose generous sponsorship, commitment, support and time means that Alpha’s services are reflected in the design values of the Annual Report.
CONTENTS Board of Directors
4
About us
4
Vision, Mission, Goals and Principles
5
Great Achievements, Great Challenges
6
Treasurer’s Report
8
Financial Report
10
Outbound
12
Box Hill
13
Employment Services
14
Terrace
16
Keilor
17
Narre Warren
18
Heatherton
19
North
20
altona
21
Sponsors, Supporters and Volunteers
22 3
AUTISM IS A SPECTRUM DISORDER
board of directors John Lang President
Greg Enticott Vice President
Odette Waanders
Lesley Milburn
Anna Makris Retired 25th October 2009: Karen Cusack and Suzette Gallagher
Brent Quill
Karyn Sobels
Dr Suresh Hungenahally
Alison Coe
ABOUT US
Governing Alpha Alpha is privileged to be led by a board of highly skilled professionals who volunteer their time to ensuring that Alpha grows and prospers while remaining true to our Vision.
Empowering Adults on the Autism Spectrum Alpha’s Directors are appointed on the basis of the skills and experience they have as professionals in their own field which means that Alpha benefits from the experiences of other businesses and corporations. The Board of 2009 – 2010 offers specialist skills in Business Development, Information Technology, Project Management, Human Resources, Accredited Training and Development, Quality Systems, Finance and Consumer Advocacy.
4
Alpha Autism Annual Report 2009/2010
Three of our Directors are graduates of Leadership Victoria and four are members of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. The knowledge gained from their years of experience has enabled Alpha to grow steadily and to develop a business model based on careful management of risk and an unshakable focus on the needs and ambitions of adults and adolescents living with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome. Thanks to all Directors past and present for their sound stewardship of Alpha and the commitment to meeting the challenges of the future.
vision Empowering people on the Autism Spectrum
Mission
Alpha Autism empowers people with autism spectrum in partnership with each individual, their families and the community We support their needs and ambitions by developing skills and promoting independence, employment and social opportunities
Organization Goals Continue to develop and implement innovative and effective services; Foster a high performance organisation to deliver optimum outcomes;
To be a leading organisation in our field; To be a viable and sustainable organisation that is well managed and governed.
guiding principles 1. We respect the ambitions, potential, dignity and rights of each individual; 2. We are committed to a sustainable and viable future and use our resources wisely;
3. We are open and committed to quality, continuous improvement and innovation; 4. We take a collaborative, holistic, person centred approach to achieving the organisation’s goals.
“I enjoy Alpha Terrace especially recreation and drumming. I have learnt to be calm and I see most of my friends are learning to be calm too.”
5
AFFECTED – 1 IN 160 PEOPLE
great achievements, great challenges 2009 – 2010 brought with some extra-ordinary challenges that resulted in some outstanding achievements. A major challenge in the first half of the year was the continuation of the Bushfire Case Management Service for the survivors of the dreadful Black Saturday fires of 2009. Alpha was pleased to continue this service up until December when, along with many other case management services, the Alpha program was wound up and any of our clients with ongoing needs were handed on to the Department of Human Services. We are very proud that Alpha was able to participate in this project and would also like to thank the staff who took on the physically and emotionally challenging role of Case Manager and provided much appreciated care for the survivors.
GREAT CHANGES HAVE ALSO OCCURRED IN THE COMPLEX AREA OF FUNDING FOR BOTH OUR VICTORIAN STATE FUNDED PROGRAMS AND FOR THE FEDERALLY FUNDED EMPLOYMENT SERVICE
6
Alpha Autism Annual Report 2009/2010
Great changes have also occurred in the complex area of funding for both our Victorian state funded programs and for the federally funded employment service. In the state funding, the long awaited development of individualised support packages was fully implemented and by December 2009, over 60% of Alpha’s clients had an individual package. This means that each person is now able to choose the type of service that they really want and Alpha has worked hard for the past three years to ensure that each individual has a wide range of real choices and professional support from staff who really understand the challenges of Autism.
In the federal arena, Alpha successfully tendered for a contract to supply specialist employment support services for people facing the challenge of obtaining employment while living with Autism and Asperger’s. The new contract is classed as ‘uncapped’ which means that Alpha is now able to accept all new referrals and does not have to manage a waiting list. The benefits of this new model are already apparent with up to 35% of all job seekers finding ongoing employment at or above award rates in mainstream businesses. On behalf of the Board of Directors I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to meeting all of these challenges. The skills and commitment of all of our clients and families, our staff, donors, sponsors and supporters have ensured a very successful year and a strong foundation for the future.
John Lang President Board of Directors
Tracel Devereux Chief Executive Officer
7
ALPHA IS THE FIRST PLACE WHERE ADULTS WITH AUTISM COME FOR ASSISTANCE
TREASURER’S REPORT On behalf of the Board of Directors I have great pleasure in presenting the Treasurer’s Report for the financial year ended 30 June 2010 The 2010 saw the introduction of new computer systems for the Finance Department with the introduction of Accpac (accounting system) and Micropay (payroll system) which both went live on 1 July 2010. As with the introduction of any new system, there were some teething problems and we definitely experienced a few as the accounting system was developed to accommodate the new changes in funding to Individual Support Packages. In January 2010, we further expanded the system by adding onto Micropay the Connx module (employee services portal), which allows all staff to enter their timesheet electronically via a secure web page.
The 09-10 financial year has included a substantial investment in new information management and communication systems across all areas of Alpha Autism
8
Alpha Autism Annual Report 2009/2010
In addition to the system changes, the demand for complex support services also increased significantly with a resultant over budget expenditure of salary and wages costs for direct client support. The final result for the whole organisation in 09-10 was a loss of $89,032, including depreciation. The total income from Government funding, Client fees and other income increased by a total of $85,548. DHS income and client fees have increased, but income from DEEWR temporarily decreased due to the transition over to new contract which took effect from 1 March 2010.
Alpha was still providing services to bushfire families from July to December 2009 at a reduced level. DHS provided funding to offset expenditure incurred in providing these services. This is reflected in Other Income. The total income raised from Drawtism this year was $110,782 and Alpha’s share is $59,606. Outcomes from Trusts and Foundations where substantially less than budgeted for the year although Alpha did receive the second installment of $40,140 from the Houston Trust for the Transitions program and $9,300 from Cooper Investors for the Drumming program. The table on page 10 highlights the ordinary activities before depreciation. The Community Relations and Fundraising (CR&F) result has been shown separately from normal activities. The operating result from normal operations prior to depreciation is a profit of $47,188 (taking into account the loss on sale of assets of $5,917). The operating result from fundraising prior to depreciation is a loss of $56,667. Therefore, the total organisational operating result prior to depreciation is a loss of $9,479.
“I love coming to Alpha Terrace and enjoy spending time with my friends”. Please refer to the financial statements and notes enclosed with this Annual Report for a more detailed explanation of the financial position as summarised in the table. At balance date the organisation’s cash reserves totalled $347,995 less the remaining bank loan on the Altona property of $219,295 leaving $128,700 available cash. In addition, the organisation has funds available for draw down if required of $194,436. Alpha Autism has committed to grow the financial reserves to ensure that the capacity to adapt to any future changes and increase in demand for services can be supported.
The 09-10 financial year has included a substantial investment in new information management and communication systems across all areas of Alpha Autism. Implementing these new systems has presented significant challenges and incurred high than normal capital costs but have resulted in substantial improvements in Alpha’s capacity to provide quality information and services and are a sound base for future developments.
ABILITY IS WHAT WE FOCUS ON
Joanna Haritos Finance Manager
9
Normal Operations
09-10 $000’s
08-09 $000’s
3,246
3,107
113
108
13
71
426
484
3,798
3,770
(6)
(46)
3,792
3,724
2,864
2,705
880
805
3,744
3,510
48
214
09-10 $000’s
08-09 $000’s
09-10
08-09
Government Grants
0
0
Client Fees
0
0
111
110
50
50
161
160
0
0
161
160
77
100
Other Operating Costs
141
157
Total Expenditure
218
257
Total Ordinary Operating Profit/(Loss) before Depreciation – CR & F
(57)
(97)
(9)
117
Less: Depreciation
(80)
(67)
Total Ordinary Operating Result after Depreciation
(89)
50
0
0
(89)
50
INCOME Government Grants Client Fees Donations/Fundraising Other Income Total Income from Operations Profit/(Loss) from Sales of Fixed Assets Total Income Expenditure Staff Costs Other Operating Costs Total Expenditure Total Ordinary Operating Profit/(Loss) before Depreciation – Operations
CR & F income
AAA SERVICE – WE STRIVE SO THAT OUR CLIENTS ACCESS ALL AREAS OF LIFE
Donations/Fundraising Other Income Total Income from Operations Profit from Sales of Fixed Assets Total Income Expenditure Staff Costs
Total Ordinary Operating Profit/(Loss) before Depreciation
Capital Income Total Organisational Operating Profit/(Loss)
10
11
A IS THE BEGINNING, BUT THERE IS NO END TO SUPPORT
Outbound
OUT AND ABOUT ALL OVER THE PLACE Outbound is a name that says exactly what we do. Every member of the Outbound group is outward bound, to camps, events and exhibitions enjoying music, dance, sport, food, pampering and sightseeing. The membership of the Outbound club continues to grow along with the places we visit and the events we attend. This year has seen outings to places and events as diverse as the blockbuster Titanic Artefacts at the Melbourne Museum, a leisurely day out at the renowned St Andrews Market and the challenge of “Glow in the Dark” mini golf. The stand out favourite for the year was a very special weekend camp at Torquay where the weather was cold and wet but the house was huge and with the luxury of the pool table, games room and a generous stock of board games and DVD’s, an indoor games weekend was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Judging by the requests for another indoor camp we are going to have to make sure we order bad weather for the next winter camp.
Alpha Social Club The Social Club has also continued to grow with over 100 registered members and a well attended program of dinners and get togethers all over Melbourne. Highlights from this year included the Tim Burton Exhibition at the Centre for the Moving Image in Federation Square. Tim’s off beat humour and bizarre images appealed to everyone attending and made for some very interesting discussion over lunch. The Social Club relies heavily on the voluntary organizing committee who meet every four months to plan and organise the events and to prepare the calendar. Thanks to each of the committee members for their dedication and hard work. This is an important job and so many people benefit from the fun and companionship at each get together. The calendar for December 2010 to March 2011 is now in planning and anyone who would like to assist the committee will be warmly welcomed.
Angela Utley Respite and Recreation Co-ordinator
THE SOCIAL CLUB RELIES HEAVILY ON THE VOLUNTARY ORGANIZING COMMITTEE 12
Alpha Autism Annual Report 2009/2010
BOX HILL
SKILLED AND FIT – A GROWING PROGRAM
GIVEN THE POPULARITY OF THESE TRIAL SESSIONS WE ARE HOPEFUL THAT THEY WILL BECOME REGULAR OPTIONS IN THE FUTURE
Box Hill has been through a year of rapid growth with some important changes in the team. We have welcomed Vincent, Chee, Mark and Hugh to the group and with much sadness farewelled Kim and Emmy who have both moved on to new horizons. With all of these changes the group at Box Hill have also had a very full year with a rapidly expanding calendar of 16 different regular activities plus weekly recreation days that include visits to exhibitions, restaurants and sports events. Each member of our team has also been trialling new programs with a favourite being karate and tae kwon do to enhance fitness and co-ordination. Given the popularity of these trial sessions we are hopeful that they will become regular options in the future.
Computers are also very popular with everyone enjoying the chance to improve email, word processing and maths skills as well as exploring the world of information on the net. The computer group enjoys the resources of the computer laboratory in Malvern East. Generously funded by the R.E Ross Foundation and the Helen McPherson Smith Trust in 2008 the computer lab provides a comfortable training room with computers for each person, as well as printing and internet access. The lab time is spent developing maths and language skills as well as searching for information on possible activities for the recreation program. Ably supported by Billy, the group has developed very strong computing skills. The possibility of accredited training in computing in partnership with a Registered Training Provider is now being investigated.
Expanding the range of work experiences and skills training is a key vision for the future and under the guidance of Mary Salter, who has just been welcomed into the role of Program Co-ordinator, we look forward to an exciting year ahead.
Ben James Acting Program Co-ordinator
APPRECIATING DIVERSITY IS IMPORTANT TO US
13
A LAUGH CAN BREAK DOWN ANY BARRIER
employment services Alpha Employment Service (AES) is part of the Australian Government’s new Disability Employment Services. AES is the only specialist provider of disability employment services for individuals on the Autism Spectrum in the state.
AES 2009 – 2010 The end of 2009 was significant for Alpha, with the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) making a formal offer of business for the new Disability Employment Services. This was an outstanding outcome for Alpha, not only securing the continuation of employment services for another term, but in that we could continue to support and assist the participants that currently accessed the service. From a business perspective, the result was also very favourable. Alpha opted for breaking up our allocated market share of business into 8 separate labour market regions of the greater Melbourne area. The rationale behind this was to reach as far and wide and be more accessible to the individuals who wish to access the service. Of the significant changes from the DEN to DES contracts, the most important was the lifting of the cap of participants Alpha could assist at any one time. Alpha for many years had a ‘waiting list’ of potential clients who wanted to access
14
Alpha Autism Annual Report 2009/2010
In the 2009 -2010 DEN/DES year, more than 30 AES registered clients have commenced employment ‘the service, but had to wait. With the lifting of the ‘cap’, combined with an increased physical presence in wider reaches of the community, any individual who wishes to access the service, is able to immediately.
The Year Ahead
Client Achievements AND Performance
Reaching out to the community and marketing Alpha and it’s services, stories and participants;
With numbers of registered participants significantly increasing each month, it’s important from a performance perspective that Alpha maintains its DEEWR ranking as being a high performing DES provider. In the 2009 -2010 DEN/DES year, more than 30 AES registered clients have commenced employment. Although we are only six months into the new DES contract, the numbers of participants entering the workforce with the assistance of Alpha is encouraging. Alpha has recruited staff that have the ability to support, motivate and advocate on behalf of our participants, and we are very optimistic about maintaining the high level of placements as with previous years.
The task of obtaining a DES contract may be completed, however there are several challenges ahead for Alpha. We have followed up on our goals from last year’s annual report, evidenced by:
Maintaining the core values and standards of the AES service; Re-writing a brand new, ASD specific pre-employment training program designed to enhance participants employment prospects and transition to employment; The commitment to recruit and employ staff that add significant value to the experience and outcomes that our participants can expect. The entire team in the employment program are committed to making the most of this current DES contract, and we very much look forward to achieving long term success and personal development for all Alpha participants.
THE FUTURE OF THE PROGRAM HAS BEEN SECURED, WITH ANZ AGREEING TO CONTINUE THE PROGRAM FOR THE NEXT 12 MONTHS
Partnerships in Action ANZ Alpha’s Joint Venture with the ANZ Bank, Retail Certificate II results and a significant job search training enhancement that achieved amazing results ANZ Head Office in the Docklands has a Community Relations department. The department amongst many things, coordinates staff from the ANZ bank to participate in a Volunteer program. In July 2010, Alpha and the ANZ Bank piloted a program whereby ANZ staff volunteered their time to interview Alpha participants in a ‘role play’ style scenario at ANZ’s corporate headquarters in the Docklands. There were four Alpha participants on the day who were each asked to come dressed appropriately as they would for a real job interview. They were interviewed separately in a mock interview style meeting. The participants were asked a series of both scripted and ad-libbed questions based around their resume, and were then provided with feedback based on their interview performance and handling of the interview questions.
session at Hungry Jacks in the City, where we witnessed just how a retail operation works including looking into Hungry Jacks OH&S procedures and general workplace activity. Of the 8 participants who began the course 7 successfully finished and were awarded their certificates at Alpha’s Head Office in August. Planning is already underway for the next training program to be held before years end.
and something we call ERNI A gentleman who had been registered with Alpha for approximately 12 months had a great work history after having worked in the one job for close to 20 years. However his industry was quickly moving offshore, and the prospect of him getting back into that type of work was bleak.
We worked closely with him and found that by using only the drop down menus, we were getting a very limited job search result return and so we began asking which aspects of his previous employment he found most satisfying, right down to the smallest of tasks.
Retail Training
We then entered those tasks into the ‘key word search’ section on the various sites, and did not use any of the drop down menus. The results were very encouraging, and identified several available jobs that had not previously been identified through the standard approach to using the job search sites.
The training was held over 10 sessions which included two work placement
These are then used to optimise job search results, and to add more specific and current information to a participants resume. Alpha recently presented a discussion paper to the 2010 Autism State Conference, and we have had many enquiries regarding the ERNI program since then.
Jason White Manager Alpha Employment Service
He had used various online job search sites to look for work, using the drop down menus to search for jobs in related fields with no success.
All of the Alpha participants thoroughly enjoyed the day, and all of them gained valuable feedback. The future for the program has been secured, with ANZ agreeing to continue the program for the next 12 months.
In late 2009, Alpha began talks with a group training organisation in regards to Alpha running a Certificate II course in Customer Service (Retail). It was some five months of planning before we began Alpha’s first in-house Customer Service course for 8 of our younger participants (aged 25 years and under).
clients. We call it ERNI. The new search system allows us to determine each person’s Employability, Retained, Non-competent & Identifiable skills.
We fine tuned the process and documented it and Alpha now uses this method of job searching with many
15
BOARD OF DIRECTORS terrace
maturity and growth toward a brighter future Alpha Terrace celebrated 25 years in 2010 and in this time we have experienced many changes, challenges and triumphs. But one important thing has not changed; our brilliant and passionate team of staff and participants who support each other through many challenges and are dedicated to helping each other to achieve our individual goals. An important change in 2010 was when our vibrant and energetic Manager, Emmy Simpson, decided it was time to move on to broader horizons. Emmy is very much missed by us all and Amy who has taken on the role of Program Co-ordinator has some very big shoes to fill. Congratulations to Annie who has worked tirelessly toward her Certificate IV in Disability while enthusiastically encouraging everyone in our art group to produce some beautiful creations. Our Artists had their work displayed in the A4 Art Exhibition and we are very proud of their efforts Thank you to Merilyn Diss who secured a place for Alpha in this Exhibition.
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Alpha Autism Annual Report 2009/2010
Annie’s skills are also appreciated in Tai Chi at the South Melbourne Senior Citizens Centre and the Cooking Program where everyone works together to produce some gourmet food. A highlight of the year has been our Communication Program in which Jo and the group members have worked hard to develop discussions groups and self confidence. The joy of being able to speak up is great to see. Another new program for 2010 is the over 50’s group which is off to a very successful start. Jo works with everyone in the group to reminisce and reflect on their lives and the wonderful memories that they are sharing with one another are great to hear. Congratulations to our sportsmen on the Basketball court. Under Vincent’s able coaching our team are developing great skills in both sport and sportsmanship and finding that a cool head works to a person’s advantage. We have heard that the “social aspect is fantastic, seeing the team socialize with others is inspiring”. Everyone has developed more awareness of social etiquette and are really listening
to and following suggestions for improving their basketball skills”. The Alpha Terrace camps are the most anticipated events in the year with everyone planning and discussing the activities months in advance. Everyone enjoyed exploring Geelong in November 2009 and Ballarat in June 2010. Camp can be hard work and everyone comes home tired and ready for a good night’s sleep but the laughter, fun and obvious enjoyment on everyone’s faces are so rewarding. One quote heard after a day out on one of our camps “I have had the best day of my life!”. Another eventful and successful year has passed with our group working together to celebrate milestones and achievements and to overcome challenges. May we continue to share meaningful life experiences together!
Amy Forcier Program Co-ordinator
keilor i have never seen a group of people so excited and enthused just to do the laundry When I get home from a busy day at work the last thing I want to do is the laundry. I hate it; the pile seems to grow every day. Sometimes I think about bringing my laundry to work and getting the guys to do it. I have even thought about starting up a little laundry sweatshop. Yes I hear all the gasps and the “What are they doing at Keilor?” Don’t Panic, I will explain. Every Friday afternoon we have a group gather all our dirty laundry from the week. We take the tea towels, swimwear and bath towels down to the Laundromat and wash them. I have never seen a group of people so excited and enthused just to do the laundry. This is one of our independent living skills programs that seems to be a winner. Everyone gets to help, whether it is sorting what goes into each machine, measuring out the laundry powder or putting the money in the machine. The owners of the Laundromat look forward to seeing us every week. They always give Alex the change and get to chat with everyone about their week. There is always a fresh supply
of old magazines for us to look at while we wait for the washing to finish. Matthew always knows when the machine is about to finish and tells us 30 seconds before it is ready. I am not sure how he knows especially because there aren’t any timers on the machines. We always take the washing back to the centre and hang up to dry over the weekend. It is now late Friday afternoon and the laundry is done. Everyone has gone home to enjoy the weekend and I am now going home to look at my huge pile of laundry. Yes I will think to myself maybe I should just take my laundry to work next week.
Russell Drake Program Co-ordinator
A GRADE IS THE MARK WE GIVE OUR STAFF
17
NARRE WARREN A GROWING CENTRE
A TEAM – JUST LIKE MR. T AND HIS BUDDIES, WE HELP THOSE IN TROUBLE
it has been fabulous that each person has been able to focus on achieving their own personal goals
18
Alpha Autism Annual Report 2009/2010
It has been an exciting year to be a part of the Narre Warren team and we have enjoyed watching the team as a whole grow and move forward. We have been lucky enough to welcome Katrina Herbert to our staff team as well as a number of new clients. It has been a year of growth and development at Narre Warren and we have taken much pleasure in the warm and supportive relationships with our community providers in many of our programs. One such program is the dancing program. Dylan says “Dancing is by far my favorite program, I really enjoy the dancing because I’ve been able to meet so many new people & develop friendships that I may not have had otherwise.” Aaron has enjoyed the opportunity to explore one of his personal passions and says “cooking is my favorite program because I have been able to try lots of different foods and I get to improve my skills every week.”
It has been fabulous that each person has been able to focus on achieving their own personal goals and becoming more more independent each day. One of the most successful programs has been Budgeting & Banking which allow the group to allocate money to programs as well as starting to save up for special events they may like to undertake. Over the past year we have been able to go to Laser force, Go-Karting, Movies & Bowling. They are really proud of the savings they have made, and have enjoyed the benefits of their hard work. All in all we have had a very successful year within programs and have really enjoyed seeing the everyone in the team grow and develop individually as well as within the group. We look forward to a successful and prosperous year ahead at Narre Warren.
Sarah James Program Co-ordinator
HEATHERTON
BUILDING BETTER FUTURES Over the past year at Heatherton there have been many exciting developments and some outstanding achievements to celebrate. We have welcomed new clients and staff to the Heatherton family and expanded the activities timetable to include more art and sport options. The team has welcomed Michael Ithier, Pauline Dramou, Marilyn Padley, Andika Ibrahim and Katrina Herbert and said goodbye to Stephanie Perry and Paul Baldy. Thank you to Stephanie and Paul for your contribution to the Heatherton team and all the best for the future. We would like to thank the Department of Human Services for a very generous grant to assist in rejuvenating our heritage listed building with fresh painting of the buildings both inside and out as well as developing a sensory garden to enjoy in our extensive grounds.
Programs Heatherton’s daily programs assist each individual to maintain and develop
communication independent living skills, as well as enjoy social activities in the local community.
Art Program The fantastic creations from the Tuesday Art group had added an amazing ‘arty’ look to our walls and paper mache dragons and snakes that hang from the ceilings
The year ahead The team at Heatherton will be focusing on each person in achieving their own goals and dreams. The sky is the limit and we are looking forward to another exciting year.
Ben James Program Co-ordinator
June says “it’s great working in the art program because I get to make pretty things and hang them on the walls”. Our next project will be self portraits created under Saul’s creative guidance to be used as the prizes in Heatherton’s monthly award ceremony.
Communication Programs Communication is the basis of all life skills and each person is focusing on improving conversation skills using discussion, sign language and compic. These new and developing skills are put to good use in the money handling and budget program and everyone is enjoying the sense of independence and control over their finances and life.
19
north
the proof is in the smiles
Alpha North has always provided services to some of the most profoundly affected individuals with autism in Melbourne, many of whom struggle to communicate through unusual and often unsafe behaviours.
Over the past two years the team at Alpha North, working closely with each individual, have developed an extraordinary culture of communication that has reduced the potential for injury from unsafe behaviours to almost nil.
In many cases, their own health and safety as well as the safety of those around them is at risk, daily, even hourly or minute by minute.
One young man has been able to remove the restrictive splints which had kept his arms in a permanently extended position. The splints had been used for many years to prevent injury from striking himself in the head or scratching.
Their options for community access and recreation are usually very limited and often means that they can become isolated or lonely and therefore try even harder to communicate. This places great stress, physical, emotional and psychological on both themselves and the people who care about them. But it doesn’t limit the commitment of the individual and their support team to improving their quality of life and achieving their potential. Everyone has dreams. Expressing them is hard. Making other people understand is even harder.
20
Alpha Autism Annual Report 2009/2010
However he relies on signing using objects and pictures to communicate and the splints not only stopped him from hitting but also eating or dressing or communicating effectively. Another young man had worn thick gloves for a number of years to prevent him injuring himself or scratching people around him. As part of an ongoing project involving everyone at North, restrictive options such as splints and gloves have been removed and replaced with better communication tools.
Both of these young men now communicate their own needs more effectively. The satisfaction of being able to dress or make a drink independently, the comfort of less pain from scratches and a huge reduction in anxiety are obvious. Others in our group now regularly go to the supermarket or other community settings and for some it has been learning to enjoy family events and religious festivals for the first time. These changes are evident in the huge reduction in injuries and incidents but the proof and most articulate expression can be found in the relaxed and genuine smiles shared between clients and staff at ‘North’. Anthony Lappin Program Co-ordinator
we look forward to continuing to take part in more great programs and more fun
Everyone at Altona North has the opportunity to take part in many different programs aimed at building independent living skills. With our three homelike units, we cook, garden and create artwork to display on our walls. But one of our favourite programs is all about fun. At 1pm every Thursday an excited group piles into the bus and makes their way to St Alban’s Leisure Centre to take part in the Move to Music Program. On arrival we enter a room filled with colour and sound. Lynn, the instructor, greets everyone with a smile, and her enthusiasm and energy gets everyone in the mood for some music and dancing. You never know what to expect at Move to Music. Lynn has an array of activities that come out each week. These include the huge coloured parachute under which each person dashes from end to end and an obstacle course with tunnels and mats galore. Singing and dancing is also a feature of the program as all the old favourites such as YMCA and Grease Lightening get a spin on the CD player.
Altona
moving to the music
The success of the program is clear to see with everyone involved and participating with great enthusiasm. Nothing makes Richard happier than digging through the box of musical instruments. He particularly likes the symbols which he hits together with such enthusiasm. Alistaire gallops from one end of the room to the other, watching himself in the full length mirrors with great delight. Closest to the speakers is where you’ll find Andrew M, as he relaxes and listens to the music. Nhan likes the coloured balls which he throws to clients and staff. Andrew Z enjoys dancing to the music. You can see a smile on his face when the chicken dance begins to play. On the large exercise balls is where Michael likes to sit, as he bounces in time to the music, a tambourine in hand. With so much sound and colour in the room, it really is a fantastic sensory experience.
We look forward to continuing to take part in more great programs and more fun both at our site in Altona North and in the community. Jonathon Thomson Acting Program Co-ordinator Kiersten Broderick Instructor
APPRECIATING DIVERSITY IS IMPORTANT TO US
The Move to Music program encourages fitness, positive peer interaction and provides everyone with a fun environment where they can jump, sing, dance and make as much noise as they possibly can.
21
AUTONOMY IS WHAT WE WORK TOWARDS
sponsors, supporters and volunteers Drawtism Ambassador Professor Tony Attwood
Heartfelt thanks to our wonderful sponsors and supporters for 2010 Mattel
Bunnings Warehouse
Mistys Diner
Salesforce
Chromagen
National Pharmacies
Cooper Investors
Costco Wholesale
Aegis
Australia
North Melbourne Football Club
ANZ
Deals Direct
Good Company
Dollar Curtains
William and Vera Houston Trust
Donortec
Australian Institute of Company Directors
GOM Services
Adventure Park Ambiance AMF Bowling Centres Australian Lighting
Euroflex International Consolidated Business P/L Johnson & Johnson King Gee
Best Friends Pets
Luna Park Melbourne Pty Ltd
Supercentre
Melway Street Directory
Big 4 Holiday Parks of Australia
Metropolitan Fire Brigade
North Suburban Sports Club Northern Golf Club On Call Personnel Playgroup Victoria Portrait Place Puffing Billy Railway Spend-less Shoes Wrigleys Australia YPA Real Estate Mavis Hickey Graham Gude
And our invaluable volunteers Janine Terry
Mei Ling
Lynne Jones
Catherine Cheung
Xanthe Smith
Damien Hashemi
Jeffrey Von Steen
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Alpha Autism Annual Report 2009/2010
empowering adults on the autism spectrum
WE STRIVE SO THAT OUR PARTICIPANTS ACCESS ALL AREAS OF LIFE
* Printed on 100% recycled stock.
Alpha Autism Incorporated 55 687 091 493
Telephone: 03 9885 2777 1939-1941 Malvern Rd Malvern East VIC 3145 www.alpha-autism.org.au