Potential’s annual gala is set for Saturday, March 12, from 5 to 10 p.m. at Rafters, 101 Friends Lane, Newtown. The theme is Night at the Derby. Proceeds support Potential’s efforts to “End the Waitlist” for quality autism services in the region.
Attendees will enjoy an open bar (beer and wine from 5 to 9 p.m.), a sit-down dinner, music, dancing, games, prizes for best dressed (don’t forget the hats and fascinators), silent and live auctions, and a raffle. Additionally, the winner will be announced for the annual Autism Caring Excellence Award.
This year’s fundraising goal is $30,000. Throughout the region, thousands of families are stuck in limbo waiting for services for their children with autism, a developmental disability that affects how a person learns, communicates and interacts socially.
When a child with autism isn’t taught how to appropriately identify and express what they’re feeling, the resulting behaviors can be unbearable. Severe tantrums that are inconsolable, problems with bladder control, unable to bear the touch of a loving parent, and even hitting or other forms of aggression are some of the ways a child may express their frustration. Without quality autism services, these behaviors often worsen and become harder and harder to treat.
Potential works to help end the wait list for autism services in the region. At its center alone, there are 200 children who are waiting for access to services. Many have been waiting for a year or more. Proceeds from the gala will help:
– Expand the reach of the center through the addition of new sites
– Recruit and train the staff needed to expand services in both the clinic and home setting (it costs $2,500 to recruit, hire and train a new employee to provide services)
– Add specialized programs to meet the unique needs of these children
Tickets are available here.
