Turning Pointe Autism Foundation honors Autism Acceptance Month with community events and fundraisers
Turning Pointe Autism Foundation is hosting a series of events throughout April to honor Autism Awareness Month. With the support of the Naperville City Council and local businesses, Turning Pointe is working to raise awareness and promote acceptance and support for individuals and families affected by autism.
City council proclamation
On April 2 World Autism Awareness Day, the Naperville City Council will recognize April as Autism Awareness Month. During the city council meeting, the mayor will present the proclamation, and Turning Pointe will be in attendance, along with other organizations that provide much-needed services in the community. This marks the start of a monthlong initiative to elevate awareness and support for the autism community.
Kendra Gives Back event
On Wednesday, April 2, Turning Pointe will host a Kendra Gives Back event from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the downtown Naperville Kendra Scott location at 55 S. Main St., Suite 111. During this event, 20% of sales will go directly to Turning Pointe Autism Foundation. In addition, Turning Pointe will have a signature piece available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the foundation.
Celebrity bartending event
On Thursday, April 10, join Turning Pointe for a fun Celebrity Bartending event from 6 to 9 p.m. at Go Brewing, 1665 Quincy Ave., Unit 155. Local celebrities will be behind the bar serving drinks to raise funds for Turning Pointe. Among the celebrities are:
• Greg Dutra — ABC 7 Chicago meteorologist and local Naperville resident
• Gina Glocksen-Ruzicka — Renowned singer of the Gina Glocksen Band and “American Idol” contestant
• Lori Johanneson — HGTV personality and a Naperville Realtor
• Mike Lemons — President of the Naperville Saints Football organization
• Matt Hoffman — Season 12 alum of CBS’s “Big Brother”
One hundred percent of the tips raised that night will be donated to support Turning Pointe programs. Additionally, the event will feature live music by Grant Milliren and food for purchase from Busy Butternut Catering. For information, visit turningpointeautismfoundation.org/celebrity-bartending-event/.
Test Drives for Autism Awareness
Turning Pointe is also partnering with local car dealerships, including Naperville Toyota, Naperville Chevrolet, Lexus of Naperville, Gerald Auto Group, and Woodfield Lexus, as part of the “Test Drives for Autism Awareness” campaign.
For every test drive taken at participating dealerships throughout April, $20 will be donated to Turning Pointe Autism Foundation, supporting their vital programs and services for individuals with Autism. Learn more about this fundraising initiative at turningpointeautismfoundation.org/test-drives/.
KidSnips fundraiser
KidSnips is once again supporting Turning Pointe during Autism Awareness Month. For every weekday haircut at KidSnips in April, $1 will be donated to the foundation. This fundraiser will take place at all seven KidSnips locations in the Naperville area. Visit kidsnips.com for more details and a list of participating locations.
Entourage and Vai’s Restaurants
Throughout April, in support of Autism Acceptance, Entourage and Vai’s Restaurants have partnered to make a difference. Enjoy their newly-crafted specialty spring cocktail, “Bee the Change” with $1 from each drink sold donated to Turning Pointe’s transformative programs.
Lazy Dog Restaurant
Lazy Dog Restaurant in Naperville, recognized for its dedication to community and local support, will give back to Turning Pointe from April 24-30. In celebration of the final days of Autism Awareness Month, simply mention Turning Pointe with any dining purchase — whether in-restaurant, online, or to-go — and 15% of your total bill will be donated to the organization.
Making a lasting impact
“Our recognition of Autism Awareness Month is a reminder that every small step toward understanding and inclusion has a big impact on the lives of individuals and families affected by autism,” said Carrie Provenzale, executive director of Turning Pointe Autism Foundation. “This month, and every day, we are proud to stand with our community in raising awareness, fostering acceptance, and creating opportunities for growth and success for those we serve.”
Turning Pointe invites the community and local families to join in the recognition of Autism Awareness Month. Together, we can create positive change by showing empathy, enthusiasm, and support for individuals and families navigating the challenges of Autism.
For more information on Turning Pointe Autism Foundation and how to get involved, visit turningpointeautismfoundation.org.
About Turning Pointe Autism Foundation
Established in 2007, Turning Pointe strives to raise the quality of educational supports for children and young adults with autism. As a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, we rely on the partnership of volunteers, donors, school districts and Employment Partners to build a thriving center for students learning with autism. Visit turningpointeautismfoundation.org to learn more.