60 www.CharlestonWomenPodcast.com | www.ReadCW.com | www.Instagram.com/CharlestonWomen is multifaceted, offering fun-filled respite days that are as beneficial for care-receivers as they are for caregivers. “Respite days keep the care-receiver engaged in socialization and feeling a part of the community,” Lahmeyer shared. “Caregivers can have a much needed break to do something for themselves that they enjoy and are unable to do while caregiving.” The ARK also offers classes for caregivers to provide tools for coping, communicating and engaging other family members on the care team, as well as a class leader training program for professionals to bring caregiver education to their communities. Their Family Caregiver Advocate (FCA) and support groups are available on an ongoing basis to support caregivers in the community. “The ARK staff is here for the caregiver here and now,” Lahmeyer urged. “Always remember, you are not alone!” Giving Autism a Voice: JUST BEE Layla Luna is a mom on a mission to make the world a kinder, more accepting place for people with Autism and their families. After being asked to leave a restaurant where her autistic son, Rio, was having a sensory overload meltdown, she decided to do everything she could do to help businesses and community helpers become more aware of neurodiversity and equip them with knowledge and tools to provide autism-friendly spaces and services. “The most important part of Just Bee’s mission that drives me is the uncertainty of the future for Rio and any individual that has autism or is neurodivergent,” Luna shared. With Autism affecting one in 36 people, and rates expected to surpass that of diabetes by 2025, Luna looks to the future with concern not only for Rio, but for all people on the autism spectrum. “85% of people with autism are unemployed and are six times more likely to commit suicide,” she explained. “I believe everyone has the civil right to have dreams and a place in this world where they can thrive and be happy.” For Luna, working with donors and companies that believe in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) for neurodiversity and in corporate social responsibility is a highlight of running a nonprofit. She sees her initiative as a grassroots movement for autism equality and inclusion — a civil rights movement. “I won’t stop until South Carolina becomes the first certified autism-friendly state in our nation,” she said, “and for all the other states to follow in our footsteps.” Overcoming self-doubt to be a voice for her son, and for all people with autism, allowed Luna to find her strength and make a difference. She urges others to do the same. “If you have a desire and you believe in something wholeheartedly, then you can do anything. Lead with your heart and God will guide you. At the end of the day, I am here to make a better world for my son.” Protecting Mental Health: NAMI CHARLESTON The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Charleston is led by a team of women who are deeply passionate about mental health support. Aashini Shrivastav, board of directors president, was initially drawn to volunteering with NAMI to reduce the stigma of mental health diagnoses and treatment, but has stayed as a result of the organization’s unique “NAMI spirit” that ignited an excitement and passion for the work. “Everyone who works or volunteers with NAMI -Charleston Area has a strongly held conviction that mental health is health,” Shrivastav said, “and that mental health support should be available for all. Working alongside such passionate people makes all the difference in the world.” Charleston Women in Philanthropy Erica Beauchamp at NAMI event. Layla Luna of Just Bee with her son, Rio.
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