Media release: For Dissemination
Autism Community Network (ACN) is soaring great heights, just like the autistic individuals
they support across 14 local governments areas and online throughout NSW and sometimes
even overseas.
On April 27, 2024, ACN will be climbing Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. The
Inaugural climb, started in 2023, has grown from 4 people to a team of 12 to date.
“We started the annual climb in 2023 to raise funds, as well as awareness of autism during
Autism Awareness Month in April,” said Vanessa Gauci, CEO of Autism Community
Network.
“The mountain represents the great heights autistic individuals can reach. It also represents
the challenges individuals and carers can face– with some days feeling like we are climbing
a mountain we thought we would literally climb the highest peak in Australia, Mount
Kosciouszko.”
With an estimated 1 in 70 individuals diagnosed with autism in Australia, and diagnosis
becoming more prevalent, early intervention and foundational supports are imperative.
Autism Community Network has been providing these supports since 2011. They provide a
range of activities including: free Carers support groups and activities, activities for autistic
individuals of all ages – including their much-loved Autistic Adults Social Clubs and Family
Days. They also hold online groups, education, information, and advice.
The supports assist individuals and families with building capacity and having the tools and
resources for self-advocacy. While the groups promote inclusion, social interaction and
provide a safe space to build friendships and relationships.
ACN fills the gaps. For those who are pre-diagnosis, those who have little to no NDIS
funding or those who are needing to find their tribe of like-minded individuals who get it, ACN
is here to help. Our supports are open to all autistic individuals and their families.
If you are interested in joining the climb you can register here:
https://chuffed.org/project/autism-community-networks-acn-annual-kozi-climb/signup
Autism Community Network has a goal of $30,000
In 2023 the team of 4 raised close to $11k
Reach out to Vanessa on [email protected] for more information.
Would you like to donate?
Click here to provide a tax deductible donation:
https://chuffed.org/project/autism-community-networks-acn-annual-kozi-climb
