Fundraiser marking World Autism Month

Local woman organizes fundraiser to raise awareness of services for people on the autism spectrum

Coiffure Spectrum, in collaboration with other local businesses, is holding a fundraiser to mark World Autism Month on April 27. Photo: courtesy of Tonya Harvey.

By Taylor McClure
Townships’ Daily News Bits
CIDI 99.1 FM
Published on 22/04/24 - Played on 22/04/24

April marks World Autism Month, and the owner of a local hair salon is organizing a fundraiser to raise awareness around the different programs and services in Brome-Missisquoi that support individuals on the autism spectrum. 

Tonya Harvey, owner of Coiffure Spectrum, told CIDI that she started the fundraiser around five years ago to bring attention to her specialized services for individuals on the autism spectrum – and with other disabilities like down syndrome – after recognizing a need in Brome-Missisquoi.

As a mother of an autistic child, Harvey emphasized that families don’t always know where to  turn for help, which is where the fundraiser comes in.

This year, Harvey invited community organizations like Camp Garagona and Pleins Rayons – who support individuals with learning disabilities and those on the autism spectrum – with hopes of developing important connections between these groups and people that may need support. 

Listen to the full interview below: