Eden Autism’s first-ever virtual gala, held January 30, celebrated Eden’s dedicated direct care staff who continue to work hard to keep participants safe and engaged throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
This year’s gala, Eden Dreams from Home, raised over $150,000 to help support the participants and direct care staff in Eden’s residential program. With the pandemic creating even more challenges to the welfare of our residents, Eden’s staff has made tremendous efforts to keep the sense of home at the forefront of everything they do. The videos and livestream programming highlighted their work and the relationship between Eden’s Direct Support Professionals and participants.
The evening’s livestream program also featured a cocktail presentation by celebrity mixologist Carlos Ruiz and other videos from across Eden, including remarks by President and CEO Michael Decker and Board of Trustees Chairman Mark Berkowsky.
“Because of the pandemic, we transformed Eden Dreams from a black-tie gala in an elegant setting into a virtual event that allowed guests from around the world to join us,” said Eden Trustee and Chair of the Eden Dreams Committee Maribeth Edmunds. “This step into the future proved to be the right move for Dreams, as we made so many more friends for Eden Autism Services. The results exceeded our expectations as we surpassed our fundraising goals. I am so grateful to our Dreams committee, our families, our Board of Trustees, and everyone who joined us online for our very first Eden Dreams virtual gala! Thank you for your support as we work to improve the lives of children and adults with autism.”
