Building confidence through the power of giving: Norah’s story

As Grandview Kids prepares to celebrate the 30^th annual Golf Fore Grandview Kids Charity Golf Classic, families like Norah’s help share why this community comes together year after year, and why continued support is more important now than ever. The story of Norah and her parents, Zaina and Mike, reflects both the challenges families face and the profound impact of donor generosity. 

Norah is five years old and the centre of a close-knit circle of care that includes her parents and grandparents. Norah is described by her family as independent, fiery and “a ball of sunshine,” bringing light into every room she enters. She is always on the move, thriving in spaces where she can climb, explore and play freely. Whether she is at the trampoline park, swimming in the pool or playing with her dolls at home, Norah embraces the world with enthusiasm. A deeply affectionate child, Norah loves cuddling with her mom and seeks comfort from trusted adults as she explores new environments, textures and experiences.  

Norah’s developmental journey began early. At 15 months old, her family noticed delays during a routine paediatric check-up, prompting a referral to Grandview Kids. Soon after her referral, she began receiving speech-language pathology (SLP) and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) services. At two years and one day old, Norah was officially diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Zaina and Mike remember the diagnosis as both overwhelming and clarifying. They had seen signs, including limited verbal communication, reduced eye contact and a tendency to focus on details rather than typical play, though hearing it confirmed was still emotional. At the same time, it marked a turning point: a pathway to the support Norah needed and deserved. 

Grandview Kids became an essential partner in Norah’s journey, not only for her but for her entire family. Through SLP and ABA services, Norah began building communication and learning skills that continue to evolve to this day. Equally important was the support her parents received through social work. Jennifer L., a dedicated social worker at Grandview Kids, helped Zaina and Mike gain the tools to process their emotions, navigate resources and shift their perspective during difficult moments. Through therapeutic approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), they learned to focus on what matters most, even on overwhelming days. 

Grandview Kids, in partnership with Lake Ridge Community Support Services, Resources for Exceptional Children and Youth – Durham Region and The Regional Municipality of Durham, offers a crucial Entry to School (ETS) program as part of the Ontario Autism Program (OAP), Early Years Pathway. Before ETS, Norah attended a traditional daycare without specialized support, often spending much of her time on her own. Through ETS, she began learning routines, building attention skills and following directions. This created a foundation that changed how she engaged with the world around her. 

Today, Norah is a student at Grandview School, where her parents say she is not only supported but truly understood. In a setting where every staff member understands the needs of students like Norah, she is learning to thrive in group environments while continuing to build independence. From opening her lunch and managing her belongings to putting on her shoes and recognizing her name, these everyday “inchstones” are celebrated as meaningful achievements.  

Norah also uses an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device, and her care team works closely with her family to ensure consistency between home and school. This collaborative approach brings therapists, educators and parents together, demonstrating the level of care that donor support helps make possible. 

Grandview Kids has created a community for Norah’s family. Through the Family Engagement Program’s offerings, such as park playdates, caregiver cafes and inclusive family events, they have connected with others who “get” their lived experience. This deep connection helps replace feelings of isolation with those of belonging. “It’s easy to isolate yourself and think you’re the only one going through these things,” Zaina admits. “Obviously that’s not the case, but you won’t know until you connect with others.” 

Zaina and Mike find purpose in giving back to their community. The two participate in Grandview Kids’ Ambassador Program and Family Advisory Council (FAC) and Grandview School’s school council. Their contributions to these vital groups enable them to support and uplift other families while saying “thank you” to Grandview Kids. This sense of community changed everything, giving Norah’s family hope, confidence and the reassurance that they are not alone. It also shows them what is possible when the right supports are in place. 

These transformative services do not happen without the generosity of donors. Every therapy session, classroom support and family connection are made possible by a community that chooses to give. For families like Norah’s, that support lifts an incredible weight. It can provide access to services they might not otherwise afford, reduce stress and create opportunities that shape a child or youth’s future. Donor support changes lives and how families see their future. It gives children like Norah the chance to build skills, confidence and independence in ways that once felt uncertain. 

Norah’s journey is just one story, but it represents so many others. This year’s 30th annual Golf Fore Grandview Kids is an opportunity to continue and expand this impact. Every donation plays a critical role in ensuring that more children, youth and families can access the care and community they need, when they need it. Your support powers potential.