Richmond, VA, November 22 – The Autism Society of Central Virginia (ASCV) honored local organizations including Beyond Boundaries, NBC12, and Hybridge Learning Group at the Altria Theater on November 19 during the organization’s annual gala.
“I am proud to share that this year, we hosted over 340 programs for nearly 6,000 autistic individuals, caregivers, and professionals,” said Executive Director, Ann Flippin, during the A Toast to the Autism Community event. “As we look to 2023, we are eager to continue our growth and expansion to serve even more of our community members. We have families reaching out to us every day expressing a need for more programs and services.”
More than 420 guests attended the event, which raised more than $200,000 for the ASCV’s mission to support, empower, and build connections for the Central Virginia autism community. In addition to live and silent auctions and several rounds of toasts to the local autism community, the ASCV recognized its 2022 Mission Award Honorees.
“Each year, the Autism Society of Central Virginia presents the coveted Mission Awards to recognize five individuals or organizations who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to the ASCV and our local autism community,” Flippin said. “These outstanding honorees are central to the mission of the ASCV, whether they are supporting it, living it, or promoting it.”
2022 Mission Amplifier Honoree: NBC12
NBC12 is a catalyst for the ASCV’s mission. An amplifier in the truest sense of the word, NBC12 has shared the mission and events of the ASCV far and wide. Through teasers, stories, interviews, sponsorship sales, commercials, and incredible talent engagement, this organization promoted autism acceptance, 5K registrations, Duck Race sales, and much, much more.
2022 Mission Exemplifier Honoree: Brie King of Hybridge Learning Group
Brie King demonstrates the ASCV’s mission every single day. From her work as clinical director of a local provider, Hybridge Learning Group, to her 15+ years of facilitating ASCV’s programs, she is truly dedicated to the autism community. King has been part of nearly all of the ASCV’s programs, from teen groups, to LEGO programs, bowling, and especially the adult social group.
2022 Mission Partner Honoree: Beyond Boundaries
Beyond Boundaries has been a strong community partner of the ASCV by hosting creative and innovative programming month after month. As one nominator shared, the organization has connected autistic youth and adults with each other, their community, and nature. From hiking to fishing, pontooning to planting, climbing to volunteering, Beyond Boundaries has created incredible experiential activities for program participants, teaching new skills, building confidence, and promoting personal growth. This organization has truly gone above and “beyond.”
2022 Mission Champion Honoree: Dilshad Ali
As a mother to a young man with autism, over the last 18 years, Dilshad Ali has left no stone unturned as she has advocated for the best possible services for her son. Her dedication and determination are remarkable, and she’s always been there to help fellow parents and caregivers along the way. The ASCV is grateful for the impact she’s made for so many individuals throughout her and her family’s journey.
2022 Mission Inspiration Honoree: Ian Young
Ian Young is a very special self-advocate who has become a valued member of ASCV leadership, joining the Self-Advocate Council and Duck Race Committee. He also joined the ASCV staff as a Program Assistant, organizing Information & Referral inquiries and memberships. He is the first to volunteer when assistance is needed, whether that is networking, working a booth, participating in programming, or getting folks up and out of their seats. The Autism Society of Central Virginia is so proud to honor Ian Young!
In addition to recognizing the Mission Award Honorees, the ASCV raised significant funding to support their programs, services, and support.
“We want to take a final moment to recognize the power of what happens when everyone in the room comes together to make an incredible difference,” said emcee, Anthony Antoine, of NBC12. “With your help, the ASCV will be there to help each individual and family looking for information, for resources, and for a community.”
The ASCV is so grateful to its sponsors, Benefactors, Patrons, Table Hosts, and guests who brought this powerful event to life:
