Autism Association 2022 Annual Report

A fulfilling, happy life means something different to every person we support. Our Individual Options team works to understand every individual by exploring the things they enjoy, their goals and needs, providing tailored supports unique to the person.

Individual Community Options This year, we assisted 263 people to explore opportunities and achieve the things they wanted to do in the community. The types of activities and outings available through Individual Options are varied and are unique to each person. Options include support with maintaining a home, improved access to community and recreational pursuits, and unique personal and independence goals.

For young children this can include being part of community activities with their peers such as sports and local sporting clubs, and developing interests in recreational activities. For adults and adolescents this can be strengthening independent living skills, exploring further education opportunities, support in finding volunteering opportunities, and applying for jobs. This year, we continued to establish partnerships with community businesses and not-for-profit organisations to provide volunteering and work experience opportunities for people with Autism. Partnerships were developed with 23 new businesses, including Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Benara Nursery, Coles, Big W, IGA, Brightwater, and Main Roads Western Australia. Each staff member is carefully matched to the individual to ensure shared interest and relationship building. To account for the vast array of interests and hobbies, the Individual Options team has developed a catalogue of community-based activities across Perth to support individuals and staff in planning activities and experiences. Several small friendship groups of like-minded people with interests in common were established this year. Interests included art, dance, Zumba, Anime, Dungeons and Dragons, gaming, golf, yoga and cooking, to name just a few.

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