Turning Pointe Autism Foundation: Lessons Worth Relearning

Full Article from Positively Naperville

by Julie Schmidt, Development Officer, Events & Partners – Turning Pointe Autism Foundation

You can do this!

These words can inspire at any age, but coming from a young, female, competitive golfer with Down Syndrome, they resonate even more deeply. Over 300 guests had the pleasure of meeting Amy Bockerstette, but she only shared the premise of “What’s Your Superpower?” with our morning brunch attendees.

This nugget of wisdom was imparted to all the attendees at Butterfield Country Club for Turning Pointe’s Annual Golf Outing and Brunch & Browse in July. Golfers knew what to expect on the historic, rolling fairways, but they were not anticipating the excitement that meeting Amy during the luncheon and out on the course, would bring.

Guests attending the Brunch & Browse, however, were greeted with a mimosa while visiting the boutique filled with curated treasures, before heading into Amy’s presentation. It was touching to see Amy take the stage with her mom, Jenny, who was by her side for support and to help keep her message on track. Amy’s dad served as her audio/visual guru, managing the slideshow and video clips. One could notice his approving nod as he glanced with pride at his daughter – “You got this.” She has a strong village surrounding and supporting her dreams.

Amy shared her famous debut at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, where Gary Woodland invited her to play the famous Par-3 16th hole with him. She simply said, “I got this.” Her words were confident as she hit the par-3 tee shot 117 yards. The audience cheered her on as she continued driving toward the pin with encouraging words from Gary. To his excitement, she successfully completed the task in 3-brilliant-shots. She “got it” alright.

Her talk continued with stories of her childhood, finding her strengths and abilities and pursuing what she loved. Along the way, she was able to determine a positivity that shaped her self-confidence and motivated her.

Here are some of my key takeaways…

• Use positive self-talk. What a great reminder of how we should be our number one fan. Believe in yourself!
• I Got this. Even when you are unsure, giving yourself a pep talk, helps instill confidence before you tackle a challenge or goal.
• You can do this. Amy’s parents certainly instilled this in Amy as she fostered her love of the game of golf. Affirming that we can achieve, accelerates our desire and will to do so. Make sure you find your village of supporters, to cheer you on.
• Breathe and Believe. We have all heard “take a deep breath” before stressful situations. Breathe and believe adds the key mindset you need to take on a task ahead of you, gives the positive mental attitude to handle a situation, perform in a game, ace an interview, be successful, and follow your dreams.
• Say thankyou. Enough said.

Amy was presented with a signature “Woman of Strength” bracelet made by renowned jewelry designer Freida Rothman, which represents beauty and resilience. Guests also had a chance to visit the Peacock Hallway, where Turning Pointe Student art was on display. Following lunch, attendees took part in a live auction, paddle raise and heard from a Turning Pointe clinician who shared how a student, Julian, changed her life for the better. Guests left feeling motivated and inspired.

This meaningful event is one of the largest fundraisers for Turning Pointe’s mission to create opportunities and programs to educate individuals with autism, increase independence, encourage meaningful lifelong pursuits and enrich the community. With the dedicated outpouring of support from everyone in the room, we were able to not only meet our goal, but exceed it! THEY are “our” true Superpower, enabling us to support students, families and adults develop new skills and enhance their own personal superpowers. Together, we can do this.

If you would like to learn more about ways you can be involved with Turning Pointe or would like information on navigating the autism journey, please visit our website  or contact our Executive Director, Carrie Provenzale.

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