Cornerstone Autism Foundation’s First Charity Event Big Success!

Saturday, June 23rd 2012 was a big day for Cornerstone Autism Foundation! It marked the foundation’s first fundraiser to support its mission of assisting non-profit organizations maximize the impact they have with individuals and families struggling with autism.

The “3rd Annual Jerry and Annie Charity Ride”, presented by the Mid-North Indiana Harley Owners Group (HOG) Chapter #1188 and Eagle Harley Davidson to benefit the foundation, was launched from the Cornerstone Autism Center located in the Purdue Research Park in West Lafayette at 12:30 p.m. This annual motorcycle ride is held every year to raise money for a worthy cause. Cornerstone Autism Foundation was contacted this year by the HOGs when they became aware of the impact technology (in particular iPads) has on individuals with autism and wanted to get involved. The proceeds of the event will allow our newly established foundation the opportunity to purchase iPads for local early-intervention organizations. In addition, it is hoped we’ll have incremental funds to support Project Lifesaver. This innovative program allows tracking of individuals with autism that have a tendency to run away from caretakers.

Cornerstone Autism Foundation assisted with the morning registration and launch. David Ide, CEO of Cornerstone Autism Center, founder of the Cornerstone Autism Foundation, and father of a child who has autism, gave a speech thanking the audience for all their support. Next up was Margaret Patterson, Tippecanoe County Sheriff Volunteer, who gave a short description of Project Lifesaver. Lastly, Tim Heath, Fire Chief of the West Lafayette Fire Department and father of a child with autism, spoke on behalf of Mayor John Dennis and personally thanked the HOG riders and Cornerstone Autism Foundation for the positive impact they are having in the area. HOG, Kathe Bell, owner of Eagle Harley Davidson and host of the evening post-ride event, helped coordinate the HOG crew during the proceedings. All said, it was the gathering place of almost 400 riders and close to 500 attendees.

The Cornerstone Autism Foundation received amazing support from several additional entities in the community to ensure the success of this first event. The Tecumseh Junior High spirit squad volunteered their time to set up, apply temporary tattoos/face paint, and prepare food and beverages to the riders and attendees. A special treat by the spirit squad was a cheer prepared exclusively for the event. Dog N Suds donated hotdogs, buns, and root beer for people to munch on as the afternoon grew closer. State Farm Insurance employees of agent Mike Kornafel set up a booth to pass out information and sponsored the event. Payless grocery store in Lafayette donated bottles of water and Payless in West Lafayette gave various kinds of cookies to snack on. Café Lumos, a coffee shop situated in Purdue Research Park, helped supply the foundation with cold and hot coffee, and the West Lafayette Marsh grocery store donated a cake to give the HOG riders at the end of their ride thanking them for their awesome support. The West Lafayette Police department offered their support by helping the bikers make a smooth transition on to the streets.

Check back soon for photos of the fun filled event.

Below are links from:

local TV station WLFI who provided interviews and coverage of the event

http://www.wlfi.com/dpp/news/local/motorcyclists-ride-for-autism-cause

http://www.wlfi.com/dpp/news/local/motorcycle-ride-raises-money-to-buy-ipads-for-children-with-autism

and Purdue University’s Research Park newsletter detailing the ride

http://purdueresearchpark.com/node/1291