Astellas USA Foundation Supports Next Generation Technology
NORTHBROOK, IL, Nov. 10, 2016 - Imagine a room where a child with Autism can feel safe, or a teenager with Asperger's can relax his mind through a multi-sensory experience, or an adult with Down Syndrome can feel in control and make choices independently. Through technology and innovative design, the Snoezelen® room is a controlled multi-sensory environment that helps to create a therapeutic alliance between the participant and staff as well as a safe place to develop life skills. Astellas USA Foundation recently partnered with Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA) by providing a $10,000 educational grant that has supported the purchase of various items, including a Bubble Wall Panel, Aura LED Projector, Rocker Glider Chair, Colored Light Spray Strand, Fiber Optic Light Enclosure and more. The Snoezelen® Room will be owned and operated by NWSRA, and located at Rolling Meadows Community Center at 3705 Pheasant Drive, Rolling Meadows.
The main goal of the Snoezelen® room is to enhance sensory stimulation of individuals who have difficulties receiving and responding to sensory input. Stimulation can be increased or decreased to match the interests and therapeutic needs of the individual. Benefits include increased concentration and focused attention, development or reactivation of sense of hearing, sight, smell, touch and taste, improved coordination and motor development (both fine and gross motor), promotion of cognitive development by increased brain function and much more.
"At Astellas USA Foundation, we believe everyone deserves access to the care and therapeutic support they need," said Moyra Knight, president of Astellas USA Foundation. "NWSRA's Snoezelen® room allows children and adults with sensory input disabilities to train and develop their abilities in a friendly, relaxing environment. This technology puts them in control of their disability, and we are proud to support a program that benefits their well being."
Equipment is being purchased now and the room will be utilized beginning in January 2017, and NWSRA plans to host programming in the room from Monday through Saturday during scheduled times. NWSRA Executive Director Tracey Crawford stated "The use of innovative technology and design will open doors for necessary therapy for many children and adults with disabilities for years to come. We are extremely grateful to the Astellas USA Foundation for their support."
About Astellas USA Foundation
Astellas USA Foundation is a tax-exempt, nonprofit corporate foundation that awards grants to support charitable, scientific, literary and educational programs. Learn more at www.astellasusafoundation.org. You can also follow us on Twitter at @AstellasFDN or Facebook at www.facebook.com/AstellasFoundation.
About SLSF:
SLSF is the fundraising arm of NWSRA, raising funds to support scholarships, accessible transportation, inclusion, athletics and general programs. NWSRA is a nonprofit organization that has enriched the lives of children and adults with disabilities throughout 17 northwest suburbs in Chicago by providing outstanding recreational opportunities in a safe, supportive and social setting for over 40 years. NWSRA holds the distinction of Distinguished Accredited Agency from the Illinois Park and Recreation Association, and won the National Recreation and Park Association Excellence in Inclusion Award in 2013 for national leadership in diversity and inclusion initiatives. If you are interested to learn more about NWSRA's programs and success stories, please visit our website: www.nwsra.org, or contact Brian Selders at (847) 392-2848.