Autism Cook Islands has kindly donated $1340 cash that was raised from their Art Auction last year, to the Nui Rarotonga group.

The young Autism Cook Islands adults voted on who they wanted to give the donation from their proceeds and selected Nui Rarotonga, who deliver quality, safe and engaging antenatal and postnatal support and education that is accessible to expecting and new mums, the dads, and their families.

Kat Jensen, Autism Cook Islands programme manager, said: “For us it is important to support new organisations starting out just like we were six years ago.”

“We want to give back when we can to the local community that supports us so well.”

Lisa Hesp, coordinator of the “Nui” programme at the Cook Islands Child Welfare Association, said following discussions, the Nui team decided the best use for the donation would be to use it for professional development for their nurse midwife childbirth educator, Rereao Vano.

“We are a new and growing community group and are learning and trialling the best way we can deliver our quality, safe and engaging programmes,” said Hesp.

“We know in order to do this we need to support and nurture the childbirth educator to build on and keep up to date with best practice, evidenced-based, culturally relevant information and delivery methods.”

Vano has the opportunity to attend a Pacific-focused antenatal course in Aotearoa New Zealand and spend time with the Hapu Wananga team of midwives, childbirth educators and lactation consultant for ideas/knowledge, support and mentoring.

“We feel this would be of immense value to Rereao, our courses and workshops and would ultimately benefit the local community,” said Hesp.

Nui Rarotonga is grateful for the support from Autism Cook Islands.

“Thank you once again for recognising the value of our mahi and supporting us to upskill our team and strengthen our community service,” said Hesp.