30 volunteers from Ernst & Young have spent today painting
the Vern Barnett School for Children with Autism,
based art Forestville. It’s
part of Ernst & Young’s workplace giving program which
encourages their employees to spend one day a year
volunteering for a charity.
The Vern Barnett School
(for ages 3 to 16) is run by Autism Spectrum Australia
(Aspect), the largest not-for-profit Autism specific
service provider in Australia. Aspect
is one of Ernst & Young’s five NSW ‘focus’ charities.
Andy Snowden, Audit Manager at Ernst and Young is one of
the team leaders on the project. He says, “Being involved with Autism Spectrum Australia
and the Vern Barnett School in particular has given us a valuable opportunity
to learn about the programs and kinds of activities the children are involved
in each day.”
“Everyone enjoyed the chance to ‘bond’ and mix with our colleagues
in a friendly atmosphere.”
Pam Lea is the Principal at the Vern Barnett School. “The school
has been unpainted and dirty for so long. When the kids and staff come
back from the holidays they will have fresh rooms. By brightening the place
it makes them feel appreciated.”
Bunnings Warehouse at Narrabeen and Dulux kindly donated
all the paint, while Eaton’s Mitre 10 at Forestville donated all the brushes and rollers.
“The volunteers have also painted the large storage boxes to match the
colours allocated to each room. By having a door and storage box in a specific
colour it provides the children with a good visual aid to help them identify
their room.”
Andy adds, “It’s been good to be able to help the school and make
a difference. We have enjoyed the instant satisfaction of being able to
see the results of our work so quickly and knowing we are making a better environment
for the children.”
Media enquiries to Anthony Perl, Manager, Communications
at Aspect, on 02 8977 8383 or email media@aspect.org.au
Information courtesy of Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) www.aspect.org.au
