Local charity going into bat for disability

LEND a Hand to Hugo is running a series of public speaking sessions to educate teens about disability.

Lend A Hand For Hugo Foundation - Luke Williams & Tom Triffett

LEND a Hand to Hugo is continuing its fight against autism with a series of public speaking sessions aimed at educating teenagers about disability.

The charity, run by 16-year-old Luke Williams, began the sessions off the back of a successful campaign using stickers and shoelaces with high-profile athletes.

“The idea of the public speaking sessions are to educate teenagers about the importance of including those with disability in every day activities as well as to give them a perspective into the life of a disabled child,” Luke said.

“These sessions also give our high-profile ambassadors an opportunity to speak on behalf of the foundation, as well as share their own stories.”

Luke, who runs the sessions with Tassie Tiger Tom Triffitt, said they had received great feedback.

“By visiting these clubs we are hoping that people will leave our sessions with a different outlook and more of an understanding of those affected by disability,” he said.

“It is great to have such high-profile athletes helping us spread our messages to juniors who look up to them.”

The charity has made use of a small ribbon sticker with the words “autism awareness” on cricket bats. Several state players such as Triffitt, Jake Doran and Jordan Silk have taken up the cause.

The charity also uses special shoelaces to spread awareness and they have been worn by several AFL footballers including Kade Kolodjashnij, Ben Brown and Ben Reid.

Local sporting clubs interested in having Luke and Tom come to speak to their players can contact the charity via [e-mail]