CARES Newsletter, May 2018
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The events shown below are social and learning experiences
provided by Autism Cares Foundation.
What we provide is only possible through the generous donations we receive,
and also through the kind participation and support of our biggest fundraisers.
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Thank you for making our Spring Gala a huge success!
On Saturday April 21st, nearly 300 guests gathered in support of Autism Cares Foundation, to celebrate a decade of changing the lives of those with autism and other special needs.
The generosity and gratitude shown on this evening, will help us sustain the social and educational opportunities that we are proud to have provided over the last 10 years, and look forward to providing for years to come.
The 10th Anniversary Diamond Celebration was held at the elegant Spring Mill Manor in Ivyland. CBS3 News Anchor Jim Donovan served as host for the evening, addressing all who attended with a friendly excitement.
Following his opening remarks, guests were warmly welcomed by Co-Founders Frank and Linda Kuepper, who expressed their sincere appreciation, and vision for future endeavors. Frank opened with a toast "May the next 10 years be as fruitful as the first, so that we may continue to make a positive impact in the lives of those touched by autism and other special needs and together, let's continue to add to the miles of smiles that you, through your support, make possible." Linda expressed her thoughts by saying, "The first 10 years have been trans-formative for ACF, but most importantly for the people we benefit - THANK YOU."
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The evening's program included both Silent and Live Auctions, as well as a Wine Pull and other fun Games of Chance. Prizes awarded to generous bidders included a Private Tour of the White House and Capitol, experiences like a Disney Vacation and a Night in NYC with tickets to Hamilton!
Thank you to those who gave selflessly to our upcoming Prom, ensuring a beautiful night for those with autism and other special needs, where they feel special, included, and excited for a night to remember.
The real winners of the evening? The thousands of individuals who we serve throughout the year with life-enriching, engaging events and activities.
We sincerely thank all of our attendees for sharing our vision and inspiring us to continue doing great things for the special needs community. The need for these opportunities is growing and changing, and Autism Cares Foundation wants to address that need TODAY.
Linda concluded the program by stating, "You are all making a positive change in these lives, and the joy that you help to provide to our special loved ones is truly amazing and humbling. Together, we are changing the future and making it a bit brighter each day."
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Thank you to our 2018 Spring Gala Sponsors
Sapphire Sponsor
Adelphi Research, LLC
KRG Enterprises, LLC
Aquamarine
BrightView
Kreischer Miller
Gold
GasTec
Mikel & Lauren Eisenberg
Silver
Marks Jewelers
Schlesinger Associates
Weber Display & Packaging
RTM Electrical Contractors, Inc.
Gift In Kind
ACE Designs
IMS Technology Services
Next Generation Productions, Inc.
Thank you for making a difference in the lives of those with autism and other special needs today, and helping build them a brighter tomorrow.
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It was a BLUE Bounce - U!
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In support of Autism Awareness Day, our Bounce U Event on April 2nd turned BLUE! Families showed their support of raising awareness by wearing their blue or ACF gear proudly. This was a day to acknowledge the Autism Community, and bring awareness to those who may not understand, or even know what it means to have autism. Creating an environment of kindness and understanding is the best gift we can give to the future of children, teens and adults with autism.
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The first session of our new Lego Play Program continues! Each week brings growth and positive change within our different age groups. Some are building their focus, some are making friends, and some participants are just getting used to being in a room with many others, and taking steps toward engaging. We thank Cindy Cook, and her wonderful volunteers from Cadette Girl Scout Troop #2697 for giving their time to help supervise the tables.
Our Lego Play Leader George Dickerson expressed his feelings about the program by saying,
"I think Lego play is a great way to increase social skills and cooperation. A few of the participants have shown a significant increase in desire to participate since the first week."
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During Autism Awareness Month, CBS3 News Anchor Jim Donovan invited Autism Cares Foundation Co-Founders Frank and Linda Kuepper On-Air to spotlight the foundation, to let others know about what we offer, where we plan to go and why ACF was started.
The interview discusses many issues that all parents of children with autism and other special needs can relate to, including isolation, and finding appropriate activities and fun social experiences for your child.
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A big thanks to David Siegel for our informative April Seminar
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"Special Needs Planning, Understanding Government Benefits", was the latest seminar in our informative and helpful series, presented by David T. Siegel, Esquire.
Dave's great sense of humor created a comfortable environment, where guests asked questions that were personally important to them, about future planning that needs clarification. Understanding paperwork and proper steps can be difficult, and legal guidance can sometimes become necessary. For more information, please feel free to contact David Siegel directly, at the Law Offices of David T. Siegel, LLC. 215.860.0154
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Fun & Friends at Game Night
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A big part of our mission is to provide an environment of acceptance and caring, for those who might not always have the same opportunities to socialize as others. Watching participants meet new friends is a happy part of life, as well as meeting other parents, who may share struggles, advice and small victories with one another.
Our recent Game Night provided that and more, as children, teens and young adults with autism and other special needs joined together for puzzles, sing-a-longs and obstacle courses! Every guest went home with a smile on their face and a special goodie-bag! We look forward to hosting more events like this in the future, so stay tuned.
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Suds, Support and Smiles last Saturday!
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The Autism Cares Foundation Club at Council Rock High School North has been very busy this month raising money and volunteering for the Foundation. Thank you ladies & gentlemen!
Led by Supervisor Alison Marbo, Saturday's sunny day granted the club a perfect opportunity for a fundraising car wash. We appreciate their time and efforts, and are truly proud of how this group of young individuals is making a difference in the lives of those with autism and other special needs, right in their own community. Great job!
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Autism Cares Foundation | 816 2nd Street Pike Southampton, PA 18966
215.942.2273 | autismcaresfoundation.org
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