Cloud 9 is a support organisation that works at a national and regional level in New Zealand. The Foundation offers support to parents, carers, families, siblings, and to children and adults with Asperger’s Syndrome (Asperger’s Syndrome is a condition on the Autistic Spectrum).
Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) is basically a developmental disorder characterised by difficulties in the following areas:
- social interaction
- communication
- imagination
- sensory sensitivity
In addition, people with AS may have difficulty with motor skills and often develop special interests and routines.
What does it do?
Cloud 9 offers information and support, promote awareness and engage in community education. They provide support by telephone or e-mail, and have an informative and interactive website, an on-line bookshop and information leaflets on various aspects of Asperger’s Syndrome.
They are involved in awareness raising and have information and programmes aimed at raising the profile of Asperger’s Syndrome in the community.
In the Wellington area they run A Social Skills Programme and a Teen Club for teens aged 13-16. For parents, they organise coffee morning support meetings, information evenings and social outings.
How is it funded?
Raymond Thompson is the Chairman of the Cloud 9 group of companies and both himself and his son have Asperger’s Syndrome. Raymond believed New Zealand needed more readily available information and support for children and teens with Asperger’s Syndrome, and that he could be a positive role model. In October 2000 the Cloud 9 Children’s Foundation was established as a non-profit charitable trust.
Cloud 9 applies for local grants and funding to run A Social Skills Programme and Teen Club.
How can I get their help?
You can contact the foundation in a variety of ways:
- Foundation Coordinator 04 232 4795
- Website www.withyoueverystepoftheway.com
- E-mail foundation@entercloud9.com
How much does it cost?
It is free to join the Foundation (although all donations are gratefully accepted). Cloud 9 sends out regular information and produce a quarterly newsletter.
Link to the Cloud 9 Website
www.withyoueverystepoftheway.com
The website provides information and resources in a user-friendly format and includes a kids and teens bulletin board with opportunities for kids to link up with e-pals. There is an online library and links to the latest information available internationally.
