Mick Gatto’s grand plan to build special playgrounds for autistic children across Melbourne
Mick Gatto has launched a charity that is raising money to build playgrounds across Melbourne for children with autism.
Victoria
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Mick Gatto and his wife Cheryl want to install purpose-built playgrounds across Melbourne for children with autism.
The Gattos’ grandson, Dominic, is on the spectrum, and their support of him has led the family to begin raising awareness and funds for other families through their recently-established foundation, Equal Access For Autism.
Mr Gatto said the aim of the Equal Access For Autism foundation was to support adolescents and young adults with autism who are dependent on their families and support workers.
Among the foundation’s initiatives is to open up opportunities for autistic people to have access to recreational facilities where they will be safe while also eliminating the feeling of exclusion and isolation.
Mr Gatto said fundraisers would raise money to create purpose-built playgrounds across Melbourne while also raising awareness of the issue.
Dominic, who is aged 14 and nearly stands as tall as Mr Gatto, loves to climb on jungle gyms but Mr Gatto said children with autism often had issues with spatial awareness which had the potential to cause safety issues for his grandson and other children.
As a result the Gattos built a playground in their backyard for Dominic to play with his cousins and friends.
Mr Gatto said interaction was important for children with autism but it was also a priority to keep everyone safe.
“Kids with autism often have nowhere to go,” he said.
“The idea is to create playgrounds specifically for autistic children. It’s going to cost millions of dollars but we know most people are touched by this in one way or another.
“We really want to make a difference.”
Mr Gatto said there were professional people on the board.
The five-person board includes two members who have children with autism and a chairman who will guide the foundation’s governance and outcomes.
A website, Equal Access For Autism, went live last week.
For more information visit: www.equalaccessforautism.org.au
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