Find your voice, and support Autism Canada : Shelburne Free Press : https://shelburnefreepress.ca

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Find your voice, and support Autism Canada

Deanna Avison of Shelburne is starting to see the fruits of her labour, in regard to raising funds for Autism Canada.
The grandmother of elementary school-aged twins with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), Deanna started the ‘Acapella for Autism' campaign, through Autism Canada (AC), late last month.
The challenge asks people to post themselves singing their favorite song to Facebook, and then make a donation to AC. Once the challenge is complete, each person is asked to nominate four friends to do the same.
Deanna came up with the idea – an idea that is similar to the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, that went viral in 2014 – with the help of friend Mairi MacRae. Mairi came up with the name for the fundraiser, and knowing it would make her uncomfortable – like having autism might make her grandchildren – Deanna nominated herself to sing first.
“(I thought Mairi's idea) was fantastic, and I then realized that I would be the first one singing on video, and putting it out for the public to see,” Deanna told the Free Press. “I can't sing and I don't even like a camera, never mind doing something like this. I didn't think that through very well.”
But her efforts will be well worth any moment of embarrassment (I've seen the video, posted at: https://www.facebook.com/deanna.avison and it's not that bad at all!)
“I thought of my grandchildren who are my inspiration in doing the fundraiser, along with all the other children who have autism and their families who I have gotten to know. They face challenges everyday, and they can overcome them with the right support,” Deanna continued.
“Children with autism generally love music and singing, so what better way to raise money for this great cause, Autism Canada. I am just a grandma, who wants the very best for these children with Autism, most of all love, understanding, patience and acceptance.”
The Free Press is supporting Deanna in her efforts by helping to spread the word. Deanna is asking you – the residents and business owners of Shelburne – to stand by her as well, by singing, nominating others to sing, and by giving generously to AC under her campaign.
“So please join us in supporting our event, Acapella for Autism,” said Deanna. “Thank you for your support and donations for this great cause.”
Visit Deann's page on the Autism Canada website to donate now: https://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=1096988&supId=420388738

By Wendy Gabrek

Post date: 2015-04-01 18:38:43
Post date GMT: 2015-04-01 22:38:43
Post modified date: 2015-04-08 19:06:28
Post modified date GMT: 2015-04-08 23:06:28