As part of the celebration of the Worldwide Autism Awareness Day during the month of April, the public has an opportunity to participate and collaborate in a unique event where children and adolescents from Crystal Academy, alongside therapists and parents, create an extraordinary environment where they are transformed into fashion models.
You can expect the thrill of a real show with a brilliant performance by guest child artist Penelope Robin.
The event takes place on Apr. 14 at the GFWC Coral Gables Woman’s Club at 1001 East Ponce de Leon Blvd. The evening begins with cocktails at 6 p.m. and the highly anticipated Fashion Show begins at 7 p.m. Fundraiser admission is $45 and coveted front seats are $55.
An exciting evening is made possible with the help of community supporters and corporate sponsors: The Miami Heat, Sweetwater Brewery, Don Q and The Coral Gables Woman’s Club.
“This kind of event represents to our children the opportunity to participate in a real social environment, where an expected protocol needs to be followed, allowing them the experience to further develop their sense of confidence.” said Mary Palacio-Pike, Crystal Academy founder and president, who is also a mother of a 15-year-old with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
“I have experienced the complete hopelessness that comes with an autism diagnosis. It was overwhelming to be told all the things that my child would never be able to do as a typical child,” said Sarah Riggs, Heart of Gold event creator and organizer.
“As a mom, I understand and live daily with the hope that has become possible with therapy. Over the years, I have witnessed the power and benefits of early, consistent quality therapy and what it has done towards maximizing my child’s potential,” she added.
Crystal Academy is a non profit therapy center and school specializing in children with autism and other developmental delays.
To buy tickets or donate, visit www.crystalacademycg.com/fashionshow or contact Sarah Riggs at 305-606-8430, by email at sarah@eachmiami.com, or Carmen Moffett 786-897-9171 or by email at cmoffett@cagables.com.
