The New England Center for Children® (NECC®), a global leader in education and research for children with autism, announced today a record-breaking Children of Promise Gala for 2017. Held on November 17 at Boston’s InterContinental Hotel, 477 business leaders, philanthropists, and NECC supporters enjoyed an evening of music, awards, auctions, and stories of inspiration. The Children of Promise Gala is NECC’s largest fundraiser and raised $733,898 for the NECC Annual Fund, an increase of 28 percent from the previous year. The Annual Fund supports autism education by providing funds for student activities, adaptive equipment, specialized instructional technology, and vocational program support.
The Gala was hosted by KISS 108’s Billy Costa, and among the guests were former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis and his wife, Kitty, State Senator Karen Spilka, State Senator Barbara L’Italien, State Representatives Danielle Gregoire and Kevin Honan, former Registrar of Motor Vehicles Rachel Kaprielian, and Dan Rea of WBZ NewsRadio 1030.
“We are humbled and overjoyed by the generous support from friends, families and the community,” said Jared Bouzan, Chief Development Officer of The New England Center for Children. “This support helps us remain steadfast in our mission – to help children with autism learn the skills they need to become independent and reach their potential.”
At the Gala, Dunkin’ Donuts was honored with the Community Autism Champion Award for 2017 for their commitment to fund raising for autism education. Two long-time NECC executives, Kathy Foster and RoseAnn Lovely, both of whom were instrumental in the organization’s growth and success, were recognized with Inspirational Leadership awards. Former student Meaghan M. was recognized as this year’s Outstanding Alumna.