International Game Technology (IGT) marked Global Giving Month by volunteering at the Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago (ASTT) headquarters, Autism Place, in D’Abadie.
The IGT team coordinated a series of interactive activities for ASTT’s adult recreational group, including baking and decorating cupcakes and expanding the centre’s kitchen garden.
“Through our Global Giving Month initiative, we dedicated staff time and energy to uplift our NGO partners in ways that are meaningful and aligned with their unique needs,” said Shavindra Tewarie-Singh, IGT People & Transformation Regional Senior Manager for the Caribbean.
“Over the years, we have donated iPads and assistive devices for use at Autism Place,” she pointed out, “and Global Giving Month is a welcome opportunity to extend our support beyond digital learning into other areas where ASTT reached out to us as a partner to offer a helping hand.”
ASTT has partnered with IGT since 2012 through the company’s After School Advantage (ASA) programme, which supports 18 non-profit organisations across Trinidad and Tobago.
ASA is IGT’s flagship community initiative and provides young people with access to technology through digital learning centres in the communities where the company operates.
Centre Manager at ASTT, Amoy Raymond, thanked the IGT team for the time spent with their clients.
“We are deeply grateful to IGT and its volunteers for spending meaningful time with our adult recreational group. All of our adults with ASD were actively engaged in the cooking and gardening activities. I especially appreciated the attention, patience, and positive interaction with our clients, including those with limited communication skills,” Raymond said.
The ASTT Centre Manager also recalled a moment with Chelster, one of the adult clients.
“He waved me over to show me his decorated cupcake and gave me a tight hug. I became teary-eyed as I watched his face and how happy he looked,” Raymond recalled. “It’s not just about the activities or the wonderful memories created, it’s about showing them that they are seen, valued, and included. Thank you, IGT staff, for doing that today.”
This initiative forms part of IGT’s wider Global Giving Month campaign, which mobilises employees worldwide to lead volunteer efforts that leave a lasting and meaningful impact in their communities, while complementing the company’s ongoing ASA programme.