Reflecting on Our Journey: From a Simple Blog to a Thriving Charity

When I first set out to do something to support other autism carers, I had no idea

where it would lead. I woke up one morning in 2019 and decided to start an autism blog page, sharing my son’s autism journey. It wasn’t a grand plan—just a heartfelt effort to connect and share with others who might relate.

Not long after, I casually asked if any local mums wanted to catch up for a coffee,

just to chat and support one another. Three mums joined me at our local McDonald's in Wetherill Park. From there, word spread, and our little group started to grow. Back then, there was no budget, no official charity—just mums meeting up, each buying their own coffee, and sharing the highs and lows of our journeys.

Fast forward to today, Help You Cope has grown into something I could have

never imagined. What started as casual catch-ups has evolved into a registered

charity, officially operating for over a year now. With a team of dedicated

volunteers, we now offer structured monthly support services that reach so many

carers in our community.

Becoming a charity has allowed us to expand our support in ways we never

could have as an informal group. We’ve met incredible people and organisations

along the way who have helped us grow and provide more for our community.

Seeing our efforts recognised within the community is not why we do this, but it is

a reassuring reminder that our work is valued and appreciated.

To every person who has been part of this journey—whether you’ve been with us

since the early days at McDonald's, attended our support groups, volunteered,

donated, or simply shared our mission—we are deeply grateful. Your support has

made Help You Cope what it is today.

And we’re only just getting started! We are excited about what’s ahead and can’t

wait to grow alongside our community, providing even more support, resources,

and connections for carers of autistic individuals.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Here’s to continuing to build a

stronger, more supportive community together!

Joline xx