My name is Nicholas Bonney and I work with kids on the Autism Spectrum.  I currently work for an Art/Respite Program in the Albuquerque Metro Area and I absolutely love what I do.  I have a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and I am pursuing a masters in Music Therapy.  

Everyone knows or is acquainted with someone on the autism spectrum and whether or not it is on the rise or just becoming more recognized in society, can be debated.  However, that is not the point here.

The point is to provide these children with a safe space, which meets their sensory needs and gives their parents or care takers a break from a life which can be highly demanding.

I  own a building separate from my house which is about 600 sq ft.  Instead of using the building for personal space I have decided to give back to my community and have found that they need respite care for children with Autism ages 4-6 years old.  I have exhausted many fundraising efforts  in my community and have raised a enough money to demolish the inside of the building, put on a new roof and pour a new floor.  People have donated supplies and I have also raised money for some art supplies, shelving units and some furniture for when we open.  

However, this building needs a bathroom, a kitchen, drywall, electricty and plumbing for starters.  I believe that the community at large is interested in seeing children with ASD thrive in society.  This can happen if they are given a place where they can truly express themselves .  This respite program will provide, Art, Gardening, Music, Free Play,  Floor Time Activities, and a natural playscape outside of the building.  We also plan to equip it with a full kitchen to prepare food, make messes and conduct science experiments.  

THANK YOU for your help as we make a difference in the lives of children with ASD and provide free time to their parents and gaurdians.