Member feature written by Meg Baresic
The Oxford Dictionary defines ‘empower’ as “to make someone stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their life and claiming their rights”. Empowering people sits at the heart of the work done by Empower Autism, with the organisation continuously striving to foster an autism-affirming environment.
Currently led by CEO Tom Moss and an incredible raft of staff and volunteers, Empower Autism is an organisation based in Brisbane’s north side. Through the delivery of educational programs and peer support groups, Empower Autism is committed to developing an environment that reflects the lived experiences of autism.
While speaking to CEO Tom Moss at their head office in Stafford, he tells me, “We are mainly focussed on providing empowerment for autistic people aged 14 years old and above. What we are trying to do is break down the barriers to social inclusion and employment that autistic people in this age bracket face. Un/underemployment and social isolation often go hand in hand.” While Tom and Education Services Manager Emma Messer have seen some improvements regarding the inclusion of, and understanding shown towards, autistic people, there is still further social change that needs to happen.
To combat the issues encountered by autistic people, Empower Autism provides educational programs such as Autism Works, a government-funded initiative that supports small and medium-sized organisations to attract, onboard and retain autistic employees. The organisation also offers Empowered Minds, a program that helps community groups and organisations to improve their understanding of, and connection with, autistic communities. As Emma points out, “Both programs are designed by autistic people, for autistic people.” This further speaks to Empower Autism’s commitment to fostering an autism-affirming society.
Volunteer Lucy Sullivan has been with Empower Autism for three and a half years and currently facilitates the Carina Heights Youth Support Group each week.
While chatting to me about her experience volunteering, Lucy shares that her role each week is “to create a welcoming and inclusive environment…We engage in activities like trivia, board games, and pizza nights at the community centre, as well as outings to places such as the Lego Cafe, laser tag and the bowling alley. We allow everyone to participate in whatever capacity they feel comfortable with.”
When I ask Lucy what her favourite aspect of volunteering with Empower Autism is, she is quick to tell me that, “It is the opportunity to build meaningful connections with the participants and their families. These relationships have enriched my life and deepened my understanding of their unique experiences.”
Speaking of her biggest learning from volunteering with Empower Australia, Lucy tells me, “My biggest learning has been the importance of connecting, listening to, and learning from participants by joining them on their journey, celebrating their achievements, and offering support during challenging times.” When I ask what message she would share with anyone who is considering a volunteer role, she is keen to encourage other people to get involved. “Just go for it! Volunteering has been an incredible experience that has provided me with countless opportunities, valuable insights, and cherished moments, all from just a couple of hours each week.”
After speaking to the staff and volunteers that enable Empower Autism to continue doing the work that it does, it is incredibly clear that the organisation prides itself on being a safe and inclusive space. “We don’t expect people to be perfect or understand everything there is to know about autism. What matters is that people are open, accepting and willing to listen,” Tom tells me.
Empower Autism believes that society thrives when diverse individuals, experiences, perspectives, and cultures are welcomed and celebrated. They envision a world where autistic people fully participate, contribute and succeed to their fullest potential with confidence and self-belief.
Head to Empower Autism’s website if you are interested in learning more about the organisation and the volunteering opportunities available.
About Meg
Meg Baresic is currently studying a Bachelor of Laws and Journalism at QUT. When she’s not drinking coffee or catching up with friends, Meg loves chatting to and learning from inspiring and interesting people.
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