One in every 150 children are now diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).  Autism impairs a person’s ability to communicate  and relate to others, placing them in a very lonely world.  We are humbled that God would use us at Garr to provide an inclusion program for these children with teaching methods and teachers that meet them in their world, teaching them in the way they learn and gently helping them step into a world of inclusion and loving acceptance.  But it does not come cheap.  Every year is a challenge financially.  Teachers work for sub-standard pay because it is a calling for them - not just a job.  Parents, who are already paying the high price of tuition, labor to raise funds to help others and keep the program going.  Schools that offer programs for “children with special needs” often become labeled as a “school for special needs students”.  We constantly face the challenge of helping our community understand that we are a Christian School that offers excellence in education in a Christian environment where ALL children may be included and feel loved, valued and connected.

So, why do we do what we do?  Running a private Christian school in a city flooded with Christian schools is challenge enough without the added complexities of providing a program like this. Why do our teachers work and give their lives to these students for so little monetarily? Why do our parents give of their time, energy and resources? Why do individuals and businesses in our community get involved with contributions?

For me, the answer is found in Matthew 25: 31-46. 

Jesus said on the Day of Judgment the Father will separate people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.  To the goats He will say,

“Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: ⁴²for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; ⁴³I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.”

But to the sheep on His right He will say,

“I was hungry for knowledge and you figured out a way to feed me.  I was thirsty for understanding and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger and you invited me into your world. I was naked and needed the clothing of social acceptance and your clothed me.  I was sick and unable to care for myself and you cared for me. I was in prison, lonely and secluded by my autistic world and you came in to visit me.

 Well done. For whatever you did for one of the least of these of mine, you did for me.”

That’s why we do what we do.  It’s the right thing to do!  It’s the God-thing to do!  It pleases our Father!

P.S.  We had 131 golfers participate in our 2^nd Annual Garr AutismNOW Golf Tournament today! Thank you to all the parents, participants and sponsors that made it a great success!  WELL DONE!  What you did for His little ones you did for HIM!