FirstCare Medical Plan has partnered with R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas and the Ministry of Education to host the first-ever Essay Contest to promote Autism Awareness among students.an essay contest on the topic “Autism in The Bahamas: Building Relationships through Understanding” open to students grades 7 to 12.
The competition is being held to increase local junior and high school students’ social awareness of this neurobiological disorder during April, internationally recognized as Autism awareness month. Interested students are encouraged to submit a 300-word essay on the topic. Submissions will be accepted through April 30, 2013.
“The Ministry of Education is proud to partner with FirstCare Medical Plan and R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas on this initiative which will help to increase junior and high school students’ understanding of autism and how to best interact with their peers who are affected by this neurobiological disorder,” stated Lionel Sands, Director of Education.
FirstCare Medical Plan, as the sponsor of the competition has pledged to provide the grand prize winner with $300 and the first and second runner-up with $200 each. Each winner will also be provided with additional prizes from supporting corporate sponsors including John Bull.
“FirstCare is dedicated to helping Bahamians live healthy lifestyles.” stated Corinna Neely, President, FirstCare Medical Plan. Part of building a healthy society is educating our youth about tolerance and acceptance which is why we see great value in encouraging students to conduct their own research on autism and write informed essays on their interpretation of the topic.”
R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas is a non-profit organization that provides parents with autistic children with comprehensive knowledge and tools to treat the disorder. The organization has planned an array of events throughout the month of April to raise local awareness, a full calendar of events can be viewed at firstcarerewards.com.
“I would describe this contest in one word – fantastic,” stated R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas President Mario Carey. “It opens up a dialogue among students and enables them to educate themselves on Autism statistics – every 20 minutes someone is diagnosed with Autism.”
Contest rules and details are available online at www.firstcarerewards.com. Essay submissions may be emailed to tneely@firstcaremedicalplan.com
First Care is an affordable health care plan that offers members access to primary health care through a network of private doctors, specialists, labs and pharmacies. Currently in its fourth year of operation, the plan facilitates regular primary care visits to help prevent major medical issues and promote healthy living.
Tyrina Neely
Fusion IMC
Caption: Technology Revolutionizes Learning for Individuals with Autism – Speech Therapist Fruzan Langdon Bethell works one-on-one with an autistic child. Individuals with autism typically have difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication. In recent years, touch-screen tablets and apps have revolutionized learning and communication for individuals with autism.
