Kate Winslet has launched The Golden Hat Foundation after narrating the film ‘A Mother’s Courage’ (originally known as The Sunshine Boy). This is a film I am very keen to see- the trailer (above) looks fantastic. I’ve written briefly about this film before on my autism review blog.
The stated Mission Statement of The Golden Hat Foundation is:
“The Golden Hat Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating barriers for people with autism around the world, and creating an environment that holds these individuals as intellectually capable.
The mission of the Golden Hat Foundation is the establishment of innovative living communities that offer people with autism the opportunity to learn to communicate effectively, receive an education, job training and enjoy recreational activities, all within a supportive social network.
When given a suitable education and the means to communicate effectively, people with autism can truly realize their dreams.”
All terribly important and I really quite agree – if I had to write my aims/hopes/wishes for Archie it would be these.
Effective communication is key to realizing dreams. We had a good summer in the main because Archie’s communication has improved so much in the past year. I’ve written recently about my hopes that Archie one day might speak. Even 20 words would make a big difference. At the same time new technology makes alternative methods of communication far more affordable. The resources section of the Golden Hat Foundation includes a link to the Carly Fleischmann story. I do feel these are exciting times for those with non-verbal autism and I expect to see big changes in expectations and aspirations over the next 20 or so years.
It would be wonderful to get a white t-shirt from Kate. Not that easy, but I’ll have a google for an agent, give it a go and keep my fingers crossed.
