Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 23, at 6 p.m. for the event of the season! The Autism Shines Gala, hosted by Autism Support of Alabama (ASA), is returning better than ever this year at the Marriott Birmingham (3590 Grandview Pkwy., Birmingham). You can purchase tickets for $150 on their website, the proceeds of which will help Autism Support of Alabama continue providing education, advocacy, and services to those in our community with autism.
“We are so excited to welcome our community back for another incredible Autism Shines Gala,” shares Jenny Morris, Executive Director of ASA. “Each year, this event reminds us just how powerful it is when people come together in support of families affected by autism. The energy, the generosity, and the connections made at the gala are truly inspiring, and we can’t wait to celebrate with everyone again this August.”
The itinerary for the night promises loads of fun, from an elevated cocktail experience and sensitivity-inclusive dinner to a 360 photo booth to document the night! Network with other supporters from across the state, bid on auction items—there’s both silent and live auctions—and dance to the Crystal Clear Band’s live music throughout the gala. Jeh Jeh Pruitt of FOX6 WBRC will also be rocking the mic as emcee. You can even shop at the Kendra Scott trunk show, where a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Autism Support of Alabama.
Make sure to bring your wallet, because the silent auction items include beach vacations to Perdido Key and Seagrove, tickets to OWA Waterpark, a Taco Mama catering gift card, and more. Keep an eye out for the live auction items, announced by Lance and Ryan of the Next Round Live Podcast—those are going to be a surprise until right before the event!
This elegant fundraiser is more than just an excuse to get dressed up—it’s an opportunity to make a difference by supporting ASA. Autism Support of Alabama provides scholarships for individuals with autism who attend college or post-secondary programs, supportive connect groups for families who have an autism diagnosis, and Comprehensive Autism Resources and
Education (CARE) Binders for families so they can stay organized. ASA also leads conferences, educational workshops, and coffee chats focused on autism-specific topics to better equip parents and individuals with autism. Additionally, ASA offers Autism Sensory Kits (A.S.K) to first responder agencies so they are prepared to best aid individuals with autism and/or sensory needs. This list doesn’t even begin to touch the dozens of ways ASA positively affects through events like Camp Frog Family Camp or professional development training and legislative advocacy.
Needless to say, the Autism Shines Gala is going to be a special event that you won’t want to miss. For more information about the Autism Shines Gala, to purchase tickets, or to learn more about their sponsorship opportunities, please visit autism-alabama.org, call 1-877-4AUTISM, or email info@autism-alabama.org.
