The Kootenay Boundary Autism Society (KBAS) was originally established as “The West Kootenay Community Group for Autism” in 1998.The West Kootenay Community Group for Autism continued to raise awareness of Autism until KBAS was incorporated in 2007.The W.K. Community Group for Autism flourished for many years due to the dedication of volunteers ~ thank you Denise, Sue & Catherine for all the talks and the coffee.
This group began when Dave and Sue Henke made a decision to become facilitators for the ASBC after their son was diagnosed with Autism in 1997.Their decision was based on wanting to find the best interventions and resources for their son but also at the same time being able to help and inform other families who were living with individuals with Autism.“We have always been very fortunate to follow others down the path of Autism, and hope by sharing our resources; we too can continue to guide new families down the same path”.
Over the years the Community Group has met many different families living with a variety of Special Needs including Autism.There is strength amongst families living with Special Needs; be it Cerebral Palsy, a Non-Verbal Learning Disability or Autism.There is a common thread amongst us in that we all share the same emotions, struggles, triumphs and dreams.The diagnosis may be different but the reality and dreams are the same.We all wonder how to teach the public to accept our children who appear to be different, what will happen when they reach puberty or what could happen to my child as I get older.These are all common feelings regardless of the diagnosis.
The lessons learnt over the years have been very rewarding.By coming together as a community we renew our strength, understanding, acceptance and compassion.As families we are able to leave a social meeting with our heads held a little higher and renewed hope that the journey we are going to travel will not be done alone.And with this common thread a group of dedicated parents had a vision to incorporate The West Kootenay Community Group for Autism into a society and formed the Kootenay Boundary Autism Society. Thank you to the Co-founders for their dedicated hours ~ Cynthia Wakabayashi, Stacey Edgington, Sue Henke, Catherine White, Denise Pappin, Angela LaVarnway, and Linda Merlo.
The Kootenay Boundary Autism extends an invitation to everyone who has an interest in a variety of Special Needs.Our social meetings are open to both families and professionals; our only request is the specific time scheduled for professionals to attend.Please join us for an evening of lively discussions and an opportunity to meet new families and old friends.
