9 October 2007. A group of local mums have just returned
from the trip of a lifetime, trekking the Great Wall of China
in the name of charity. The group of 15 raised $90 000
for Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) through various fundraising
events.
Many of the mums who took part have children with an autism
spectrum disorder that use Aspect’s services. The
money raised will go toward Aspect’s early intervention
programs for young children with autism and their families.
On their return the mums all agreed the 10-day trek of the
Great Wall of China was an experience they will never forget.
Sarah Pieters is Aspect’s Fundraising Manager and she
says, “Aspect is delighted to be the beneficiary of the
women’s fundraising and overseas adventure challenge.”
Over the past year they have organised a range of activities
such as doughnut drives, sausage sizzles and movie nights. The
Harbord Public School (as reported in the Manly Daily 1 Aug 07)
got behind one of the participants, with the children and staff
raising an incredible $16 000 via a walkathon. Three of
the mums held a dinner dance at Manly Golf Club on 23 August,
which netted $35,000.
Sarah says, “In all it was a fantastic result and it
was the support of the Manly-Warringah community that really
made the difference with local business, friends, family and
colleagues really getting behind the group and ensuring their
success.”
She continues, “The fundraising result was well beyond
our expectations, raising more than three times the original
target. It will really help us in funding programs that
are so critical for the long term development of young children
newly diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.”
Aspect is planning three more adventures next year leaving
in September and October 2008. These are trekking Peru
or the Great Wall of China and cycling Vietnam to Cambodia. If
you are interested in taking part in one of Aspect’s 2008
challenges please contact Megan Pickering in Aspect’s fundraising
office on 8977 8370 and keep an eye on the website www.aspect.org.au for
more details.
“Aspect would like to say a heartfelt thanks to all involved
for helping to make the group’s fundraising such a success,” says
Sarah.
Information courtesy of Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) www.aspect.org.au
