Shifting Hong Kong is a series of short articles by Hong Kong Shifts. The aim is to shine the spotlight on the city’s NGOs, charities and other organisations focusing on social inclusion initiatives and working to support Hong Kong’s most vulnerable social groups. This week we are sharing our perspectives on the Hong Kong Association for AD/HD.
What they do
The Hong Kong Association for AD/HD is a charity that supports children with AD/HD (attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder) and provides a support network for their parents. The symptoms of AD/HD often appear in early childhood, including difficulty focusing, impulsivity and hyperactivity. The Association organises events, workshops and training for parents and also works to raise awareness of and de-stigmatise the condition in the wider community.
Vibes
The Association works out of a trendy, blue-themed co-working space in Quarry Bay. We were shown around by one of the team and were impressed by the friendly vibes and exchanges with other freelancers working in the space. Everybody seemed to know the lovely member of staff we were with!
What we loved
Creative events - apart from the usual training workshops and support groups, the Association also organises other activities such as an outing on the Adventure-Ship which, we hear, involved people jumping overboard! A great bonding opportunity for both parents and kids.
Mission behind organisation driven by personal experience - the Association was started by a small group of parents of children with AD/HD, hence the people running the organisation are fully able to empathise with and relate to the experiences and challenges encountered by members.
Great support network - excellent peer to peer support with parents facing similar issues supporting each other, fostering empathy and compassion.
Behind the scenes
The organisation is run by a lean team which means that it is flexible, resourceful and adaptable. During the heights of COVID, the team organised four rounds of resources distribution to families in need. Not only is the Association doing great work for their cause, but they also look after the families in a more holistic way to meet their needs.
How you can help
If you would like to contribute to support the Association’s activities to raise awareness of AD/HD, feel free to donate here. Alternatively, get hands on and sign up as a volunteer. Read our story of Bo, who worked as an administrative worker for the Association and share it with your friends and contacts to promote their amazing work!