For more than 15 years, FEAT (Families for Effective Autism Treatment) of Louisville has been working to create better lives for children and families of children diagnosed with Autism and Autism spectrum disorders. This year, that tradition will continue in grand style at the FEATure Flashback: Creating a Stir About Autism gala taking place Sept. 27.
We spoke with Deborah Morton, FEAT of Louisvilles Director of Marketing, about this years extravaganza.
THE VOICE-TRIBUNE: What can guests and attendees expect at this years Creating a Stir About Autism gala?MORTON: Our event is held this year at The Gillespie. The doors open at 6 p.m. for those who have purchased a dinner ticket. Guests will experience an evening of open bar, appetizers, dinner by Vincenzos, silent and live auctions, raffles, and dancing to the 70s hits of local party band 100% Poly.
Our event is a throwback to the 70s Disco era, and were encouraging our guests to come dressed in their finest polyester and platform shoes. Dinner tickets are $125 each and can still be purchased at featoflouisville.ejoinme.org/FEATureflashbackgala.
But the fun doesnt stop there. At 9 p.m. the doors to our Mirror Ball Lounge open for guests who want to pay $25 for their tickets. They will receive three drink tickets, dancing and a late night snack provided by Papalinos Pizza and Brownies The Shed Bar & Grille.
V-T: What has been the key to making the gala a success?MORTON: The mission of FEAT of Louisville is Easing the Autism journey through a community network created for families by families to provide ongoing support through education, programs, and resources. Our mission is clear; FEAT exists solely for families experiencing the journey of autism. However, our mission could never see fruition without the dedication of volunteers, sponsors, families, and friends who desire to find a better way for families on this journey.
V-T: For those who may not know, tell us a little about the challenges people with disorders on the Autism spectrum face.MORTON: Children on the autism spectrum face numerous issues and challenges on a daily basis. But its important to remember that each child with autism is one individual with unique needs and abilities. Because of this, the path to success with each child can be totally different.
Young people on the autism spectrum are reported to have difficulties with two main areas: Continued difficulties with social communication and social interaction. For example, carrying on a conversation may be extremely difficult (if they even have verbal skills), they may not understand social rules, or they may even not be able to make friends. Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities. For example, they may make repetitive body movements or they may be hypersensitive to certain sounds.
V-T: What kinds of support does FEAT offer those it serves?MORTON: FEAT offers families monthly support meetings with speakers scheduled to share information that relates to issues they are dealing with daily, such as insurance, medical and personal care. We also create conferences with well-known doctors and providers so that parents can continue to learn methods that will help them with their children.
FEAT is actively involved in collaborating with numerous providers in the city, including Dreams in Motion Summer Camp for children ages 7-21. It is an eight-week program that involves children in a variety of onsite and community activities including swimming, bowling, and arts and crafts.
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FEATure Flashback: Creating a Stir About Autism