Together build a tic friendly world
Mission
To help those affected by tics grow up in a world that supports and encourages them to be the best they can be through awareness, connectivity, inclusivity and acceptance.
Our Values
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We are committed to providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people affected by tics.
See also: collaborative, respectful, acceptance.
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We strive to foster connection and understanding for those we serve and to promote the wonder of people affected by tics.
See also: compassion, understanding, recognition.
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We will work to support and enhance the rights of people affected by tics.
See also: represent, champion, advancement
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We uphold the highest ethical standards in all our operations and interactions
See also: excellence, honour, principled
Living with a disorder that is as physical and intrusive as Tourette Syndrome is challenging.
Being that it is a rare genetic disorder the diagnosis rates are low. In a small country like New Zealand often a child diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome, and his/her family, are the only ones in their school or town.
This can become very isolating when little is known about the disorder and feeling alone is a very common theme among our families.
It was the need to find support that led to the Association being formed in 2013. That year it became a registered charity and has continued to grow in strength and numbers ever since.
We want people with TS to receive the practical support and social acceptance they need to help them live their lives to the fullest.
How we achieve this:
We raise awareness and FOSTER SOCIAL ACCEPTANCE through education and robust social media campaigns.
We INVEST IN RESEARCH that will advance scientific understanding, treatment options and care.
We EDUCATE PROFESSIONALS to better serve the needs of children, adults and families challenged by Tourette and Tic Disorders.
We PROVIDE SUPPORT, HOPE AND HELP through our network across the country. We host virtual and in-person discovery and learning sessions, support groups for a variety of ages, and maintain a library resources to raise understanding.
We EMPOWER THE COMMUNITY to advocate for the most pressing issues facing the TS community.