Miss Vermont International Raises Autism Awareness

by Karly Fereday, Miss Vermont International and Stern Center Volunteer

Karly (left) and Emmaline at the Stern Center

My name is Karly Fereday and I am Miss Vermont International 2015. For those of you who might not know much about me, I am the oldest of six siblings. I attended Meredith College for two years studying Art and one day I hope to become an Art Therapist. I have chosen Autism as my platform for the pageant because it’s very close to my heart for many reasons, one of them being that I have a younger brother that has been diagnosed with it.

Autism is a developmental disability that affects how a person communicates and relates to other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them. It is a spectrum condition which means that, while all people with autism share certain difficulties, their condition will affect them all differently. I have been working as a personal care assistant for people with special needs on and off for about five years while working part-time at a salon. Autism is my platform that I am speaking about across the state of Vermont to raise awareness.

I have been a volunteer for the Vermont Autism Task Force, and for the past month, have also volunteered in the Communication Services department at the Stern Center on Tuesdays. While there, I work with two different groups of kids. The first group is made up of a couple of energetic, 10-year-old boys, and the second is a group with two 14-year-old girls, who love trying on my crown and sash, and taking photos.

Unlimited Potential

by Sandy Rendall

From left to right Vermont Autism Task Force's Michal Ricca, Stephen Shore and 
Julie Erdelyi, Autism Specialist at the Stern Center.

When a child is born the world is full of possibilities. When a child is diagnosed with autism, for some families, the world closes in. However, Tracey Bowen of Arlington, VT, a self-described “autism mom,” and author Stephen Shore have a different perspective.

During an event at the State House hosted by the Vermont Autism Task Force and the Vermont Disabilities Council in celebration of Autism Awareness Day they both shared their message.

“I want to lead with hope,” said Tracey. “Treat others as you would want to be treated – with dignity and respect, kindness and understanding. Don’t take on the negativity. Don’t blame yourself. Don’t feel guilty. Keep your eye on the future and on independence for your child. We need to help our children grow, to have a future. They need to learn to advocate effectively. Children need to hear from us that they can do it. Please join us with your voice for what your kids need. There is light beyond our own homes.”