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The Center for Autism & Related Disabilities at the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University (CARD) is gearing up for its 2025 Tropical Nights gala with an ambitious goal.
Co-chairs Cristian and Gianni LaCapra are aiming to raise $1 million to support CARD’s innovative services and programs. The couple is leveraging their expertise and network to significantly enhance the reach of CARD’s free services, supporting individuals with autism and related disabilities across South Florida.
CARD serves more than 17,000 families across South Florida, providing a comprehensive range of free services that span the entire lifespan. From early intervention programs for toddlers to educational support for school-aged children, vocational training and job placement for adults, and care for older individuals, CARD’s mission is to empower those with autism to lead fulfilling lives. Their work also extends to family counseling, support groups, and community training, fostering a more inclusive society.
The gala, which is CARD’s signature community fundraiser, will take place on Apr. 5, 2025, at the InterContinental Hotel in Downtown Miami. Cristian LaCapra, a senior wealth strategist at Northern Trust, brings extensive experience in wealth management and a strategic approach to fundraising, setting elevated targets for the event. Alongside his wife, Gianni, former director of sales and marketing at Decorative Sales Associates and a constituency board member of CARD, the couple is known for their impactful community involvement in Miami.
Their contributions and roles span organizations such as CARD, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, The Cushman School, Girls Inc. of Greater Miami, and the United Way of Miami-Dade. Their personal connection to CARD began when their son Nico was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in 2018, and since then they have been passionate advocates for the organization.
“Chairing Tropical Nights is both an honor and a deeply personal mission for us,” said Cristian LaCapra. “Our goal is not just to raise funds, but to further elevate awareness, ensuring CARD can continue to expand its transformative impact throughout our community.”
Tropical Nights 2025 will spotlight Lileana de Moya of The de Moya Foundation for her decades-long dedication to the neurodiverse community. With a remarkable career spanning roles as a registered nurse, special education advocate, and founder of multiple initiatives supporting young adults with disabilities, de Moya has tirelessly worked to create pathways to inclusion and employment.
The gala promises an evening of inspiration and celebration, featuring both silent and live auction, entertainment, and powerful personal testimonies from families whose lives have been transformed by CARD.
Funds raised during the event will support CARD’s efforts to further expand its reach, including increasing staff, opening additional satellite offices, and enhancing outreach to minority communities such as the Black and Haitian communities. CARD also aims to establish a physical presence in the Florida Keys to better serve families in that region.
CARD’s free and comprehensive approach spans the entire life span, from early childhood intervention to geriatric care, ensuring continuous family support and services for individuals with autism and related disabilities.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for Tropical Nights are now available. For more information, visit CARD’s website at TropicalNights.CARD.Miami.edu, or contact Michelle Costa at mke@miami.edu.
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