Vuma teams up with the Els for Autism Foundation
Vuma is proud to join the “Big Easy’s” initiative, Els for Autism, aimed at raising funds and awareness for children with autism through the 2020 Els for Autism Golf Series, taking place at Sun City’s Gary Player Country Club and The Lost City Golf Course on 4 and 5 November 2020.
Els for Autism, founded by professional South African golfer, Ernie Els and his wife Liezl Els after discovering their own son was autistic, places a much-needed spotlight on the issue of autism and the need for awareness and training around the disorder, as well as education and therapy for children on the spectrum.
As such, the Foundation funds research into autism, its causes, and the development and delivery of treatment therapies, educational programs, training programs, and sports programs as well as residential and independent living programs. This includes global outreach programmes aimed at driving autism awareness and sharing best practice around treatment, as well as promoting the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
According to statistics released by The Centre for Disease Control in the United States in 2018, autism affects one in 59 children in the US, with most children still being diagnosed at age four even though autism can reliably be diagnosed by the age of two, adding that early intervention is key in developing more effective treatment plans.
“Educating more parents, teachers and South Africans in general about autism is crucial right now, especially looking at global statistics around the disorder and the fact that early diagnosis could seriously help improve the quality of life for children on the spectrum,” says Lianne Williams, Vuma Head of Marketing.
As part of its involvement with the initiative, Vuma has pledged its support towards the Foundation’s efforts and – more importantly, says Williams – a commitment to building an ongoing relationship of support with Els for Autism.
“This is more than a sponsorship to us. Our goal is to help where we can, because we can, and to create lasting value in the lives we touch, empowering South African youth through access to connectivity, which drives improved access to education and better opportunities overall,” adds Williams.
To learn more about the Els for Autism Foundation and how to pledge your support, visit www.ernieelscentre4autism.co.za.