Under the blazing sun, a happy summer for children with autism. The Franklin Foundation hosted the “Fun Water, Welcome Back to School” event at RagingWater Water Park in San Dimas on the 8th. A total of 78 special needs children and their parents participated, including 30 children with autism or other special needs.
Franklin Foundation President Jane He stated that this is the second year the foundation has funded an invitation for children with special needs to visit the water park. Last year, 86 people participated, including 45 children. Although the number was slightly lower this year, the children came from diverse ethnic groups, including white, African American, and Hispanic children. While some children have more severe symptoms, some, in addition to autism, also have ADHD, developmental delays, lack of language skills, and poor behavioral abilities. Organizing such children to play in the water involves certain risks; however, considering that no matter what the children’s situation is, they should enjoy the same treatment as normal children and should not lose a happy childhood just because they have disabilities.
She said the event focused on creating a multi-ethnic community for children, including an African American boy named Travon who had never been to a water park before. His mother was overjoyed to hear that the event was funded by the foundation and offered a good price, so she brought her entire family of 13 to participate. Through interaction among children from different ethnic backgrounds, not only can mutual understanding be enhanced, but the English speaking skills of the Chinese children can also be improved, ensuring the foundation is not just a Chinese organization.
Film director and producer John Qu stated that all of the Franklin Foundation’s funding comes from community donations. This year, the foundation planned to film its fifth documentary film, “A Math Genius with Autism,” in Boston. However, due to high costs in the East Coast and financial constraints, filming has been delayed. They hope the public will support the foundation’s work so that the children’s dreams can come true. The foundation’s website is www.franklinfoundations.org.
