Through its After School Advantage (ASA) programme, IGT has recently donated additional iPads with accompanying accessories and a laptop to the Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago.
Like many other non-government organizations who work with special needs children, the Autistic Society has experienced various challenges throughout the ongoing pandemic, including extensive restrictions and social distancing policies which have limited daily activities. The addition of these new devices will greatly assist in navigating the current constraints, as well as enhance the virtual learning experiences for the children of the organization.
Since 2012, IGT has partnered with the Autistic Society through its ASA programme, in contributing technological equipment towards making the lives of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) much easier. Over the years, the donations of iPads, have significantly assisted in improving the children’s communication abilities, functioning as effective educational tools for the children. The devices are also used to teach social skills and improve social interaction with peers and adults using specific apps and as a form of augmentative communication, especially for those who have limited speech capabilities.
The Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago was established on 31st May 1990 and is a non-governmental organization that is first and foremost a parent support group for families of children diagnosed with ASD. The Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago’s mission is “Working together with families to help all individuals with ASD achieve their fullest potential through education, training, and advocacy for affordable and appropriate quality services.”
The ASA programme is IGT’s signature corporate philanthropic programme providing computer labs for children ages 5-18 to use for homework assignments during the critical after-school hours. The programme strives to close the “Digital Divide” for at-risk children who are left behind because they do not have the means to access computers at home in today’s increasingly digital society.