‘An Evening for Autism’ Raises $170K

A bird’s-eye view of "An Evening for Autism" at the Saywitz home.

Glitz and glam is an understatement in describing Saturday’s 3^rd Annual “An Evening for Autism” event.  More than 600 celebrities, athletes, political dignitaries, business leaders and the OC community attended the lavish event, hosted by real estate entrepreneur Barry Saywitz at his Belcourt residence.

Max Ryan, Executive Director of ACT-Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!) Nancy Alspaugh-Jackson and Shar Jackson.

This year’s event raised more than $170,000, which will benefit ACT Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today), Autism Society of America (ASA), Easter Seals Southern California and Talk About Curing Autism (TACA).  In addition, proceeds from the event will benefit Newport Mesa School District’s Autism Programs.

“I am amazed at the support and generosity from our community,” said Saywitz (whose seven-year old son was diagnosed with autism at the age of two).  “Thanks to this support, the money we raised tonight will help these organizations and charities continue their important work with children with autism and their families.”

Saywitz was honored at the event by Assemblyman Allan R. Mansoor’s office with a resolution marking Saywitz’s on-going efforts in raising money for families affected by autism.

For more information, log on to www.aneveningforautism.com.

Photos by Stephan Arias

Liza Wayne, former LA Lakers Star Jamaal Wilkes, Nancy Alspaugh-Jackson, Executive Director of ACT-Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!), and event host Barry Saywitz.

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