Autism on the Seas

Who ARE these people, these Angels in Orange?

They are volunteer members of an organization called Autism on the Seas(AotS).  Putting it simply, AotS gives families of special needs children a chance to enjoy a cruise with as little hassle and worry as possible.  In collaboration with Royal Caribbean International (and other cruise lines), AotS offers cruise vacation services to accommodate adults and families living with special needs children, including Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and all other cognitive, intellectual, or developmental disabilities.

 Our reference librarian Laura Kane describes in her blog her experience and witnessing volunteers wearing orange help make this opportunity possible, manageable, and fun! She states, "For five days I watched these orange-clad men and women place the needs of special children ahead of their own needs. I watched them engage with the children, play with them, hug them, sing to them, swim with them, eat with them, calm and soothe them, and keep them safe from dangers.  I watched them do all of these things with unfailing enthusiasm, endless cheerful energy, and obvious love for children not their own.  One of whom was my own son."

 To learn more about Autism on the Seas and their services, please click here.