Almancil International Rotary Club (AIRC) has had a long association with Escola EB 2/3 Dr Antonio de Sousa Agostinho in Almancil. Amongst the projects already supported has been paddle boarding for some of the pupils with special needs and, in particular children with autism. As well as being enjoyed by the children it has helped to improve their coordination and communication skills.
Of course it isn’t practical to continue paddle boarding in the cold winter months so in June it was decided to trial the new sport of padel tennis. The children enjoyed it so much that they had their first proper lesson recently. It is hoped that with sponsorship from AIRC and the Algarve Tennis and Fitness Club in Quinta do Lago the children will be able to further improve their communication and motor skills and have a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
The Club has now added hippotherapy for three autistic children to enjoy. Children with autism benefit from equine therapy due to the motor, emotional, and sensory sensations that come with riding a horse. Beverley Gibbons, the Principal of the Pinetrees riding school in Almancil has a lot of experience with autistic children and was delighted to welcome the new group to the classes.
“We are delighted to be associated with this school in Almancil” said AIRC President Claire Busbridge "and adding hippotherapy to their programme has been an absolute joy for us. We hope to continue with various fund-raising activities to enable us to offer more of these disadvantaged children activities to enjoy and benefit them.
We welcome applications for new membership to AIRC, especially those willing to give a little back to those less fortunate”.
