The medically correct term neurodivergent awareness means recognizing and respecting the natural diversity of human brains and acknowledging that people think, learn, and behave differently, with conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), down syndrome, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and dyslexia being examples of neurodivergence. Rotarians focus on service above self but how can this happen if many still do not know much about these gifted learners and how cumbersome it can be for parents to get assistance and even access therapy, schools, care, just to name a few, for them. Numerous educators themselves have not been given training to learn how to be patience with such gifted individuals. What is Neurodiversity?
- Natural Variation: Neurodiversity acknowledges that human brains are wired differently, and these differences are normal variations, not deficits.
- Diverse Thinking and Learning: Neurodiversity encompasses a wide range of neurological differences, including how people process information, communicate, and interact with the world.
- Inclusion and Acceptance: Neurodiversity awareness aims to create more inclusive and accepting environments where neurodivergent individuals can thrive.
Rotary International, through its commitment to diversity and inclusion, is actively raising awareness and supporting neurodivergent individuals through various initiatives, including fundraising for mental health and neurodiversity awareness, especially here in District 7030. Here's a more detailed look at Rotary's involvement:
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: Rotary International values diversity and celebrates the contributions of people from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities and different learning styles. - Raising Awareness: Rotary clubs and districts are actively involved in raising awareness about neurodiversity, often through events, campaigns, and partnerships.
- Fundraising for Neurodiversity: Rotary clubs and districts are organizing fundraising events to support mental health and neurodiversity awareness, including raffles and other initiatives.
- Support for Autism-Related Projects: Rotary International supports autism-related projects through The Rotary Foundation, promoting understanding and acceptance.
- Neurodiversity Celebration Week: Rotary clubs are encouraged to participate in Neurodiversity Celebration Week, which recognizes the strengths of neurodivergent individuals.
Five Avenues of Service: Rotary's "Five Avenues of Service" (Club Service, Vocational Service, Community Service, International Service, and New Generations) provide frameworks for addressing neurodiversity through various initiatives.
Rotary's Focus on Polio Eradication: While not directly related to neurodiversity, Rotary's primary philanthropic focus on eradicating polio is a testament to its commitment to global health and well-being, which indirectly benefits neurodivergent individuals as well.
Examples of Rotary Clubs' Actions:
- The Rotary Club of Antigua Sundown (RCAS) of District 7030 recently hosted its Annual Autism Awareness Walk and hundreds turned out in support of autism awareness and advocacy.
- The Rotary Club of Tobago launched a month long awareness booth at Lowlands Mall, where people can learn more about autism, access resources and support a more inclusive district.
- The Rotary Club of Pointe-a-Pierre had an amazing Autism Awareness meeting where they spoke about how Rotary can make a difference for special needs families!
- Dozens of Interact, Rotaract and Rotary Clubs also, rocked their socks, in support of World Down syndrome Day.
- The Rotary Club of Braids partnered with Rotary District 1320 – Scotland South to raise funds and awareness for mental health and neurodivergent causes.
- The Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy participated in a fundraising campaign for mental health and neurodiversity awareness.
- The Saturday E Jazz Rotary Club held a virtual meeting to break the stigma around neurodivergence.
Some places of interest that deal with gifted learners that Rotary Clubs may want to assist are: 
Goodwill Industries
Cascade School of the deaf
Princess Elizabeth Special School
Cause and Effect
Opal Kids
Palmeras Learning Center
CKFTO
Eshe’s Private School
Lady Hochoy
Sage Academy School
Edinburgh Special Needs Centre
Inspired Minds Institute
Theophilus Academy
Focused Learning Institute
Aspirare Learning Community
Autistic Society of Trinidad and Tobago
Pointe-a-Pierre Government Special School
Topaz EduCentre