Brimbank-based Autism Angels has been touching the lives of families living with autism for more than six years.
When Kon Havelas, now 14, was diagnosed with autism at age three, his Keilor Downs parents Chris and Despina searched desperately for local guidance and support.
Autism is a spectrum disorder that affects the way individuals are able to interact with others. Difficulty communicating can result in ‘meltdowns’.
“We wanted to find other people who were going through the same thing,” Mrs Havelas said. ‘‘There wasn’t much around the west.’’
The couple founded Autism Angels in 2008. The group sought to give families what Mr and Mrs Despina needed when Kon was diagnosed: friendship and the opportunity to share their experiences.
“We needed to fill that need in the community,’’ Mrs Havelas said.
Autism Angels continues to support and connect western suburbs families.
“The door never closes to anyone,” Mr Havelas said. “Whatever it is, whatever it may be, it’s the experience of trying to learn what the kids want.”
Autism Angels’ second dinner dance, to he held at Club Italia Sporting Club in Sunshine on August 23 – will feature a band, children’s entertainment, a three-course meal and drinks. Adult tickets are $60.
For more details, visit www.autismangels.org.au
