Fundraising

In an effort to raise awareness about autism and educate people on its devastating effects on children and families living with autism, we have taken on the challenge of organizing a fund raising event to benefit both the “Autism Speaks" (formerly Cure Autism Now foundation and Autism Speaks were separate, they have joined together now) and the Autism Puzzle Foundation. The funds we are able to raise through these events will go directly to national scientific research as well as local community education and assistance. Each of which will hopefully, one day, eradicate this disorder once and for all.

In 2006, it was our first year we didn’t know what to expect. We knew we wanted to educate people about autism and the staggering growth of this disease, as well as raise money to help eradicate this disorder. Other than that we went into this endeavor somewhat blind, but with plenty of faith. We were told if we could raise $5,000 in our first year that would be a good accomplishment. We proceeded to set a goal of $10,000 for the event and went to work. Through tremendous generosity we were able to far exceed our goal, and quite honestly our expectations, and raise an unbelievable $21,000 in 2006. We were truly touched by the support we received. If you were blessed enough to join us that year you realize it was a very special evening of friends and family coming together to make a difference in the lives of children and families living with autism.

In 2007, once again we were blessed with a wonderful turnout of 224 people. After the past year’s event, we wondered how we would top such a touching and heartfelt evening. Well, if you were fortunate enough to join us for this year’s event, you realize you were again part of something truly special. I know I speak for all of us when I say we were touched by both Tracy Thresher and Maleia Darlings’ thoughts about living with autism. Having each of them share their feelings, thoughts and struggles with all of us was both educational and moving to say the least. It is from people like these (and others) that the Autism Puzzle Foundation gets it’s inspiration. Our board is truly overwhelmed and touched by the generosity and support you have shown throughout this entire journey. We are excited about the foundation’s future, and are already planning for next year’s event.

We had three main goals for this year’s event. Our first goal was to educate our guests about autism. Our second goal was to raise money for national research to find a cause and a cure for this disorder and eradicate it once and for all. Our third and final goal was to raise enough money to continue to assist Vermont families who are dealing with autism. Through our own foundation we help them purchase equipment suited for their needs to help alleviate some of the daily struggles they face. To say we accomplished these goals is truly an understatement. Through our slide show and our guest speakers we were able to educate and share some truly unique perspectives on autism. We are also proud to announce that we are making a donation in the amount of $20,000 to the “Autisms Speaks & Cure Autism Now Foundation” for research. Lastly, we are keeping $33,000 in our foundation to help fellow Vermonters dealing with this disorder. It is truly humbling to have this support and be able to generate $53,018 to a cause so near and dear to our hearts. We realize we have much work to do, and we know we could not do it without the support we have been receiving. We accept the challenge ahead and are dedicated to making a difference in the fight for autism.