So why autism? The idea to support the Lighthouse School and Stichting Papageno came about organically, when we learned that more and more AWC members, people we know and care about, are impacted by autism and perhaps you are one of them. Whether it is your own child, grandchild, niece or nephew, or a friend or neighbor’s child, many of us have a personal connection with this heart-breaking condition. The more we have learned about the enormous challenges of managing autism, the more determined we have become to make a change for the better in the here and now.

We now know that therapy and education can result in substantial life changes for children with autism and are critical for them to reach their full potential and be part of the community. It is extremely difficult for children with autism to learn in a language other than their native tongue. Offering a special education program in English, the Lighthouse is a critical resource for English-speaking families with autistic children despite the fact that they receive very little funding.

Research also shows that music is an almost universally accepted method of therapy and communication, and for autistic children this has a significant, positive influence. Though it receives no government funding, Stichting Papageno offers a variety of programs, projects, and activities featuring music therapy. It is a successful medium because almost everyone responds positively to at least some kind of music.

Autism is a lifelong condition that affects a child's development. It has little to do with intelligence. Affected children may have a wide range of abilities and many are gifted in different subject areas, but others may never learn to speak or lead independent lives. It affects four times as many boys as girls. No one knows what causes autism and presently, there is no cure. What is known is that early therapeutic intervention and education assists the afflicted children to lead optimal lives and, perhaps for some, to integrate into mainstream education and society.

With this in mind, the AWC launched a campaign to heighten awareness of this heart-breaking affliction and generate funds dedicated to helping children with autism and their families.

As with last year, funds raised will benefit both Lighthouse Special Education, a special education school in The Hague, and Stichting Papageno, in Laren. The Lighthouse is a unique school serving the international community. Since the city of The Hague prides itself on its international relationships and accessibility, this is an extremely appropriate and worthy project to support. Stichting Papageno is a nonprofit organization, founded by renowned violinist and conductor Jaap van Zweden and his wife, Aaltje, which reaches out to children with autism, particularly through music.

We hope that you will support this important fundraiser again this year.