1. What is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person perceives
and socializes with others, causing difficulties in social interaction and
communication. The term "spectrum" in autism spectrum disorder refers to
the wide range of symptoms and severity. While there is no cure for ASD,
intensive, early intervention can make a big difference in the lives of many
children.
2. What is MERAK?
The word “MERAK”, derived from the Serbian language, refers to the feeling of bliss and the sense of oneness with the universe that comes from the simplest of pleasures. The autism spectrum correlates to the same objective, where the people with autism are of their own individualities pursuing simple tasks which lead them to a greater sense of happiness and fulfillment. This paved
us way to title the project “MERAK”, hence emphasizing the shared goal of recognizing individuality. MERAK will be hosted on the 2nd of April, 2023 to commemorate the World Autism Awareness Day, incorporating the concept of Beach Clean-Up, to promote the interest and engagement of the
public in Sri Lanka. This will be Sri Lanka’s first-ever beach clean-up autism awareness event, where a massive crowd of over 2000 participants are expected to take part, ultimately targeted to be the largest autism awareness event in Asia.
3. What is going to happen on 2nd of April, 2023?
We will be hosting a Beach Cleaning Event with fun filled inclusive activities for children with disabilities, parents, well-wishers and (more than 2000) members of society on the 2nd of April, 2023 at 3.00 P.M. at Mount Lavinia Beach to commemorate World Autism Awareness Day.
We kindly invite you/your institute to join this event as a volunteer/s to
assist us carry out the required tasks and
make this event a success. Several local and national schools, universities,
clubs and families of persons with
disabilities have been invited to
participate at this event. The volunteers will be required to come for a
briefing prior to the event and will be provided with a T-shirt, snacks and a certificate of participation in appreciation of the work done.
4. Who is organising this event?
The Tree House International seeks the
support of your organisation for this event to encourage inclusion in participants thereby enabling us to increase acceptance and raise awareness for autism and other disabilities so that
we can take a step into the future where every child matters and no child will be left behind .