Alex, a young man with autism, came to the Trust on heavy medication with associated health problems. Alex was withdrawn and had difficulty relating to the group. His parents brought him 80 kms to Miranda on a weekly basis.  After volunteering at Te Whangai  over the last two years Alex has undergone personal transformation. He is on basic medication, volunteers 4 days per week, is bright , communicative and outgoing and a valued member of the Te Whangai team at NZ Steel. Alex cut the opening ribbon at NZ Steel alongside Minister Bennett and symbolizes the untapped potential of our beneficiaries, his parents “now have their son back.”