To the editor:

The Pilot Club of Great Bend just finished their 4th Autism Workshop and would like to thank everyone who supported our efforts to bring awareness, inclusion, and understanding of those who have autism and those who love them.

Our organization relies on Pilot International for our matching grant, received a Golden Belt Community Foundation grant, a donation from Todd Armatys (in honor of Ryan Wetzel), and the Richard Johnson Memorial fund. We are proud to partner with Sunflower Diversified Services, and are extremely grateful to Barton Community College for letting us take over the Fine Arts Building for our event.

We are thankful to our family panel members: Ashley Flowers, Kanye Cross, Amy Haxton, Corey Landreth and Alicia Boor, who allow us to see what having someone on the spectrum looks like from a family perspective. The insights gained from them help us form a bond of empathy. Also, thanks to our speakers Amy Nelson, Jenni Halstead, and Beth Reeder for filling us with knowledge and best practices to move forward.

Lastly, thanks to the Pilot Club committee and caring community members for giving up their time for a year to plan and implement this event. Never forget the difference you’ve made!

Ros Neeland

Autism Chairman

Pilot Club of Great Bend