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A Day in the Park for Autism Awareness

March 28th, 2011

I rarely get directly involved in too many community causes outside those promoted by my local church. It’s not that I lack core values; it’s just that I’m not that good a person! No honestly, I find somber events dealing with life and illness outside the realm of religion to be kind of hollow, especially given the fact that I feel essentially powerless to make any quantifiable difference. Ritual apart from faith has always struck me as rather empty. I whole heartily commend those who work tirelessly on behalf of others, and I try to contribute in at least some small way to charity, but I seldom participate in the surrounding pomp and circumstance. Well there’s an event happening in Tyler next week that even I can support.

The Assist Autism Foundation will be holding a community day in the park event, in order to raise awareness concerning the disease. The day’s events will include bouncy houses, face painting, children’s yoga, (whatever that is), great music, and whole litany of other activities. Participation in most events is free; although I’m sure there will be opportunities to give for those who are so inclined. There are a number of local businesses and organizations sponsoring the event which will run from ten am to two pm. It’s an up- beat day of community involvement that promises to be fun for the kids in particular, and goes to supporting a great cause. Businesses and organizations who are interested in taking a more direct and active part can call 903-509-4430.

On a not completely related note, parents or family members of Autistic children who would like to connect with other families in similar circumstances, or simply get some general and anonymous advice are invited to visit the following web page: http://www.findingjackson.com “Finding Jackson” is a great resource, and will hopefully be an encouragement to many families struggling with Autism.

Giving Hope to East Texas

August 31st, 2009

There are a few organizations which have contributed to the culture of Tyler and East Texas for over a hundred years. One of the most trusted and beloved is the Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army was founded as a missionary organization by William and Catherine Booth in 1878. The mission’s goal is to demonstrate the love of Christ to the needy and those without hope. The Army is so named because of the founder’s desire to combat poverty and injustice, as well as spread the gospel. Those ordained in ministry are called officers. The laity or common parishioners are called soldiers. Since its founding the ministry has grown into a world wide organization which operates in one hundred thirteen countries.

The Salvation Army deployed to Tyler Texas in 1897. The facility is named “the Center of Hope” and provides food, housing and job assistance to East Texans who find themselves out of work and or without a place to live. The local programs provide excellent guidelines and structure for those suffering from poverty and addiction and who are seeking to put their lives back in order. The mission provides a Christian based counseling service for those whose lives are in crisis.  The organization preaches adherence to what it calls the five core values, passion, compassion, bravery, uplifting (or being a source of hope), and trustworthiness (as pertains to financial responsibility). Local programs include: disaster relief, emergency services, sheltering, substance abuse counseling and much, much more.

The local Salvation Army sponsors a number of fund raisers every year in order to cover the cost of operation. Events include luncheons, plays, golf tournaments, even a local fashion show.  Nearly all the money raised goes directly to services for the needy. For more information on the Center of Hope and the Salvation Army go to their web site at www.salvationarmytyler.org or call 903-592-4361. They are located at 633 N Broadway Ave in Tyler.