Fiesta by the Bay: Laughter, Fun and A Great Way to Join the Challenge to Understand Autism
On Friday, April 20th, I was honored to be the host of the the 7th Annual Fiesta by the Bay, a fun-filled, spectacular event held at Gaspar’s Grotto in Ybor City with food provided by Tijuana Flats of Fletcher Ave. Hosted by the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at USF (CARD), this event highlighted just a small portion of some of the things being done to help raise the awareness of Autism and related disorders.
Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control has stated that autism is now occurring in one out of 88 children? It is five times more likely to occur in boys than girls, and the need for assistance by those affected by autism is growing each and every day.
Thankfully, there are organizations like CARD, which is a statewide free resource for both families and professionals to help meet the need. Their purpose and drive for the last two decades has been to bring support and awareness to Autism, and those people affected by it within the surrounding 14 counties. They provide training, assistance, and general support that is so desperately needed. Located at the University of South Florida, this charity has quickly become an essential resource for those dealing with Autism. But, like most charitable organizations, they can’t win the fight alone. That’s where we and events like Fiesta by the Bay come into play.
In a true show of support and dedication, the community came together to support CARD through an annual fundraising effort known as Fiesta by the Bay. As the name suggests the evening was filled with fun and laughter and included such activities as a cake walk salsa style, a tableside magician, businesses that are Autism Friendly, including the Florida Aquarium, and a silent auction to name just a few.
Of course, the true stars of the show were the contributors and donors who took the time out of their busy schedules to come out and support CARD. Every one of the attendees and donors were treasured, and one great example of a sponsor going the distance was the law firm of Fowler White Boggs, who decided to join the cause seven years ago, and their welcomed support is still going strong.
In addition to the great fundraising activities and wonderful sponsors, the Fiesta by the Bay also highlighted the many people who work every day to make the lives of those affected by autism just a little bit brighter. These included everything from teachers to aides, from parents to co-workers, and friends and family. It certainly was a magical night, and some great work was done.
So what’s in store for 2013’s Fiesta by the Bay? We know that it will be fun, full of laughter and love and a great success. Hope to see you there!
The end of a perfect evening for an amazing cause.
