Press Release
Roper Saint Francis Physicians Endowment has awarded Pattison's Academy $15,000 to fund an innovative sensory gym for the unique population of individuals with severe disabilities that Pattison's Academy serves. The gym will provide children and young adults with a stimulating sensory experience that will work collaboratively with their education and therapy goals.
The sensory gym will feature multi sensory tactile panels, vibroacoustic equipment, bubble tubes and fiber optic lights. Individuals will take part in sensory play to “seek and find” elements in the room that will activate the senses in various ways. The gym will provide opportunities for both calming and sensory arousal experiences making it the ideal space to serve individuals regardless of their abilities. The space can aid in learning and development, help to relax an agitated person or stimulate and raise alertness levels of someone who has sensory processing disorders. The new space will improve the quality of life of children and young adults in the Lowcountry for years to come.
“We recognized that our children needed a space that provided opportunities for interaction and engagement,” said Paige Knowlson, Executive Director of Pattison's Academy. “As Pattison’s serves individuals with varying degrees of abilities, including Autism and related disorders, this updated space will provide appropriate opportunities for all individuals to regulate, grow and thrive. We are grateful that Roper Saint Francis Physicians Endowment committed to partnering with our children to support this innovative space.”
Each year, through the Roper St. Francis Physicians' Endowment, the Medical Society of South Carolina distributes grants to Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester County non-profit organizations, for the express purpose of improving health, wellness and access for residents in the tri-county area. For more information visit www.pattisonsacademy.org.
