Nearly 200 guests gathered at the Sam and Martha Gibbons Alumni Center on April 26 for Fiesta by the Bay for Autism, the annual fundraiser hosted by the (CARD) at the 猫咪视频app.
A father-daughter duo enjoyed the silent disco and danced the evening away. Guests had the choice between three music styles to dance to.
The event, which supports CARD鈥檚 featured food, entertainment, dancing, a silent auction, and a performance by magician Cody Clark. Clark, who is on the autism spectrum, emphasized inclusion and understanding during his act, highlighting his message: 鈥淥ur differences are nothing to be scared of, but simply a different way of thinking.鈥�
The silent auction included items from local businesses and handcrafted works by autistic artists 鈥� a distinctive and popular feature of the event. Guests also enjoyed a photo booth, silent disco, and dedicated sensory rooms designed to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities.
鈥淲e know that individuals on the autism spectrum have differences in the ways they process sensory information,鈥� said Liz Burke, CARD鈥檚 Autism Friendly lead. 鈥淲e were able to accommodate our guests who might get overwhelmed in sensory-rich environments.鈥�
Wishy Kane, a parent of a child with autism, praised the thoughtful accommodations. 鈥淗aving two sensory rooms 鈥� one for active input and another for calming overload 鈥� was genius,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t allowed families like mine to stay and enjoy the evening.鈥�
The evening also included a special recognition of the David & Faten Black Foundation as the 2025 CARD Champions. For a decade, the foundation has supported projects, developed special programs, and built community partnerships for both CARD and . In appreciation of their contributions, board members received framed artwork created by artists from .
Board member Ruthie Hirshfeld, a parent of a young adult on the autism spectrum, was also recognized for her long-standing support of CARD and advocacy for the autism community.
For two decades, Fiesta by the Bay has served as a key fundraiser for CARD-USF, helping support programs and initiatives that enhance the lives of individuals with autism and their families.