News

On Saturday, March 30^th friends, families, teachers, and supporters gathered in the crescent at Camana Bay with one common objective: to raise awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Every year Lighthouse School and the Home School Association partner together to host this event in order to raise awareness and raise funds for essential ASD programs.

This event would not be possible without the support of our community.  “We were thrilled with the overwhelming support we received this year. Cayman National and Water Authority have been integral in our awareness campaign as they have sponsored the event since its existence in 2014. In addition to our long standing sponsors we also welcomed Engel & Völkers, Harmonic, Ogier, EFG Bank, and Maples Group to the team” explained Sarah Caswell, Occupational Therapist and chairperson of the ASD committee. The contributions of the seven companies collectively covered the cost of the t-shirts, which guaranteed that 100% of proceeds from the walk would go towards the continuation of essential Autism programs. Special Education Teacher, Heather Thompson, explained the importance of this funding and the dual purpose it serves in the students’ lives at Lighthouse School. “The students’ participation in these programs provides ample opportunities to acquire necessary life skills, while simultaneously allowing them to advocate and raise awareness for Autism through their interactions with their community at large.”

Over the past 6 years this event has grown exponentially. In order to meet the increasing demand and diverse population, the organizing committee decided to add a timed run to this year’s walk to cater to the avid runners. In previous years Lighthouse School has relied primarily on staff members to fill the role of volunteers, but this year they welcomed the addition of members from Rotaract Club of Grand Cayman, Ogier, Engel & Engel & Völkers, and three young members of our society. Volunteer Coordinator and Speech Pathologist, Deniece Williams, was very pleased with the turnout. “Thank you to all our volunteers who dedicated their time. I’m extremely proud of the work that the volunteers provided, and I’d like to acknowledge their timeless effort to the cause.” said Williams.

As the t-shirt, designed by student Brandon Jackson, states “We all fit together” and this was clearly evident with the tremendous show of support and acceptance on Saturday.