As a recent masters graduate in the field of special education, it is now time for me to go make a difference in this world. First stop: volunteering with a program called Autism on the Seas. I will be sailing from Baltimore to Bermuda on a week long cruise, leaving on June 24th!
I will be helping families have an actual vacation that they otherwise might not be able to have without the assistance of professionals like myself and the accommodations provided through this non-profit organization. Each day, families live with the direct effects of autism and other disabiltiies. The challenges are great and require a constant devotion from each family member, and a vacation without assistance would likely not be possible. This is where I come in as a volunteer for Autism on the Seas.
I will be providing support to families with boarding and disembarking the ship, all meals, pool time, private venue session times like climbing the rock wall, water slide, bumper cars, zip lining, etc. During the cruise we also provide 2-4 hours of daily respite for the families and off ship excursion assistance.
This volunteer effort is mainly funded by Autism on the Seas, but we have some expenses that often are out-of-pocket. We often have to arrive at the port the day before the sailing, which may include a flight to the port city (flight not needed this time around but I'm hoping to volunteer on future cruises that might not be out of Baltimore), hotel for the night and meals. I also have on-board expenses to consider, including internet to remain connected (for the program), and gratuities for ship staff.
Any help with my out of pocket expenses would be greatly appreciated. All donations are tax deductible. If you can not give at this time, no worries at all! I am happy to have you read my post regardless and raise awareness about this organization. I am so excited to now be a part of the volunteer team! I applied many years ago and was told to try again if I ever decided to earn my masters :D
"Autism on the Seas (AotS) is an organization that allows families to experience a vacation, that at one time would have been impossible to imagine. AotS arranges specific special needs accommodations with the cruise lines including assisting with expedited port check-in, meal assistance, pool time supervision, beach excursions, respite for guests with special needs to be well cared for (while the rest of the family can do other things and get a very deserving break), as well as many other perks and assistance. You can learn more here: www.AutismontheSeas.com"
