This April we’re all being Superheroes for autism. For the entire month of April, we’re celebrating World Autism Month with the Irabina Month of Superheroes. “Everybody needs superheroes,” says Deb Goldfinch, Irabina’s CEO. “They inspire us, encourage us, and give us an example of courage, strength, resilience and compassion.”

“When it comes to raising awareness and acceptance for autism, we all need to be Superheroes.”

At the heart of the Irabina Superhero Month is today, April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day. Since 2008, World Autism Awareness Day has encouraged people all around the world to be more aware and accepting of people with autism. It highlights the need to help improve their quality of life, to ensure everyone affected by autism can lead full and meaningful lives, connected to their community.

Here at Irabina, our mission is to provide everyone affected by autism – children, young people, siblings, parents, carers, professionals – with the support they need. We advocate for their needs to government bodies and other organisations. Our programs are designed to improve mental wellbeing, encourage belonging and increase independence. Our experienced clinicians and therapists genuinely care about the children and people we work with. We won’t turn anyone away.

We are also dedicated to advocating for families and children affected by autism. “When it comes to being a Superhero for autism, and standing up for those who need our help, well, that’s what we do,” continued Deb Goldfinch. “We reach out to the NDIS and other organisations, and we help them to better understand the needs of children and families affected by autism.”

The Irabina Superhero Month gives everyone a chance to be a Superhero. It is dedicated to uncovering and celebrating the secret talents and abilities hidden within us all. Originally intended as a Superhero Fun Run, to be held on 26 April at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne, it has been transformed into an all-online superhero event in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Featuring daily challenges, weekly contests and a month-long create-your-own Superhero competition, the event provides children and families with a fun way to stay connected during this difficult time.

“We believe all children are superheroes in their own way,” concluded Deb. “The superhero theme lets everyone in the family get involved, young or old. We can all be a superhero for autism.”