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Blue Jean Ball returns Sept. 23 to benefit Autism Delaware

July 3, 2022

Autism Delaware is bringing back its annual Blue Jean Ball, one of the most popular events of Sussex County’s social scene.

After a two-year hiatus necessitated by COVID restrictions, the event is set for 7 to 11 p.m., Friday, Sept. 23, at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center.

The fundraiser helps support the statewide agency’s programs and services, needed now more than ever as families deal with the impacts of a pandemic that was especially difficult for those in the autism community.

The Hertrich Family and Toyota of Milford are again the presenting sponsor of the ball, a role they have generously taken on for many years. “The Hertrichs and Toyota have generously supported the autism community, even back before the merger of the Autism Society of Delaware and the Lower Delaware Autism Foundation into one statewide organization, Autism Delaware,” said Tushar Patel, general manager for Hertrich Toyota in Milford.

Patel and his wife Susan have a 28-year-old son named Rohan who is a participant in Autism Delaware’s adult vocational program POW&R, aka Productive Opportunities for Work & Recreation. “I think Autism Delaware is one of the better autism organizations in the country, and we are lucky to have them here in Delaware,” he said.

Fun is the theme, according to Fran McKenna of Milton, who is co-chairing the ball with Lisa Eline of Rehoboth Beach. The two have worked together on the Blue Jean Ball for years and pride themselves on steadily increasing attendance, sponsorships and funds raised every year.

“We want this special night to be a fun evening out for all to enjoy while helping us raise much-needed funds to increase essential family support programs and events,” said McKenna.

“My hope is that we can raise not only money but awareness of programs, and how through the entire pandemic, Autism Delaware continued to support so many families,” said Eline.

Attendees at the ball can look forward to gathering with old friends to share wonderful food from prominent local restaurants; open wine and beer bars sponsored by N.K.S. Distributors; live and silent auctions; boardwalk-themed games including the crowd-favorite wine ring toss; and rocking out to the party sounds of the band Love Seed Mama Jump.

For reservations, go to bidpal.net/BJB22.

Individuals and businesses interested in sponsoring the event at one of its many levels can contact Deanna Principe, Autism Delaware event manager, at Deanna.Principe@delautism.org or 302-224-6020, Ext. 213.

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that includes impairment in social interaction and communication. Individuals with ASD also exhibit repetitive patterns of behavior or interest that limit everyday functioning, and intellectual or language impairment is also possible. All these symptoms generally first appear in early childhood. In December 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated the prevalence of autism in children at one in 44, up significantly from the previous estimate of one in 54.

A 501c3 nonprofit, Autism Delaware’s mission is to help people and families affected by ASD. With offices in Newark and Lewes, Autism Delaware serves the entire state. Fundraising events such as the Blue Jean Ball provide the income needed to make critical programs a reality. To learn how to help, go to autismdelaware.org.

 

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