Did you know that 1 in 36 children in the US are diagnosed with autism and many of them are undeserved. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that can affect how someone communicates, learns, interacts with others, and experiences the world around them. It's important to understand that autism is a spectrum, meaning people can experience a wide range of challenges and strengths.
85% of ASD children don’t participate in physical activity, and for parents with multiple children, that rate is even higher. However, studies show us that physical activity can help improve behavior, thinking skills, and increase focus for ALL children.
ASD children are too often cast aside and told they can’t or shouldn’t do something but at HARD#1 we tell them they CAN and SHOULD! They CAN play sports. They CAN participate in our community events. And they CAN have fun in a social environment!
What We’re Doing
At HARD#1, we believe that sports and recreation have the power to bring communities together and enrich the lives of everyone involved. Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do. One of our goals is to offer something for everyone because we believe everyone matters. That’s why in 2017, we started our free TOPs program for athletes who have mobility, sensory, or visual impairments. This 7-week program now offers tee-ball, baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, dance, and cheer!
What sets our TOPs Program apart is our commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. Recognizing the diverse needs of participants, we aim to go above and beyond to ensure that everyone can fully engage in and enjoy recreational all kinds of sports. This program has been a game changer in the lives of those in our community. We have athletes returning year after year and parents expressing how much this program means not only to their athlete, but to them.
Athletes are paired with a buddy to work with them through every step of the process allowing not only athletes on the autism spectrum, but athletes with all kinds of differing needs with an opportunity to experience sports in way that best suits them. They’re able to work with their peers toward a common goal in a safe, fun, and exciting environment with people that encourage them and believe in them.
What you can do:
Raise Awareness
Raising awareness for autism is incredibly important not only for the autistic community, but for our community. It’ll help us have more empathy and compassion for everyone around us. Allowing us to look at others as equals regardless of abilities. Together we can create a community where autistic children and adults can lead a full, meaningful, and happy life.
Share the Game
While our TOPs program is free for all athletes, our share the game initiative helps us provide gear, prizes, and get the equipment we need to bring even more sports to these athletes. You can also share the game by volunteering your time, spreading the word about our TOPs program, or connecting us with organizations that would benefit from this program.
Together, we can create a community where everyone feels welcome, safe, included, and important.