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Ells for Autism warns drowning is leading risk; seeks support for specialized aquatic center
Summary
Ells for Autism told Palm Beach delegates that drowning is the top cause of death for individuals with autism and requested continued legislative support for a planned autism-friendly aquatic center and the 'Ernie Els Game On Autism Aquatics' curriculum.
Ells for Autism executive director Marlene Sotelo and partners appealed to Palm Beach County delegation members for support of a specialized autism-friendly aquatic center and related drowning-prevention programs.
Sotelo said the group’s research and partnerships show drowning is a leading risk for young children with autism and described a planned recreation complex that would include a pool, splash pad and a curriculum designed for safety and inclusion. “Drowning is the number 1 cause of death for individuals with autism,” Sotelo told the delegation, and she urged continued appropriations and partnership to deliver education and safe facilities.
Ells for Autism said it is partnering with national and local organizations, including the Autism Society of America and the Dan Marino Foundation, and highlighted the ‘Ernie Els Game On Autism Aquatics’ curriculum as a tool to deliver water-safety education. The presenter thanked Senator Gail Harrell and Representative John Snyder for prior appropriations support.
The delegation applauded the presentation; the Ells Center is hosting a sale of goods made by adult program participants in the foyer for attendees after the hearing.
