PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) – When a child is diagnosed with autism, some parents say they experience a bit of fear wondering how their child will be able to feel comfortable while competing in sports.
Timiko Blackman-Winn tells 10 On Your Side she was in that position just over ten years ago when her son received his diagnosis at three years old. When Blackman-Winn’s son started to get older, he wanted to be involved in more sports, but Blackman-Winn struggled to find groups that helped kids like her son.
That’s when she started Complete the Puzzle.
The organization is an Autism Resource Center, right here in Hampton Roads, created straight from her own heart. From bowling to soccer, kids like Blackman-Winn’s son can participate in all kinds of activities while feeling safe and understood.
In just a few weeks, she’s opening up registration for their annual soccer summer camp. She says this is one of her favorite events to put on because she knows how it impacts kids just like her own.
“I’m always open for something new, but the kids, they really enjoy it,” explained Blackman-Winn. “Very thankful parents, I receive a lot of hugs a lot of them, crying and just… they’re just like overwhelmed and just like ‘Thank you so much’. That’s the best part of what I do, is just knowing that I’m doing something for them that’s helping them to complete that puzzle.”
You can register for this year’s ongoing soccer camp by clicking here. Registration is $45 and the camp runs through Aug. 24th in Portsmouth.