A Sutherland Shire organisation helping families affected by autism has received a huge boost – with supporters raising $16,000 for the organisation.
Autism Community Network (ACN), based at Illawong, supports about 1100 families across Sydney.
Local supporters, and mums, Jane Theo and Irene Adam organised a gala dinner and auction recently at St George Sailing Club to help ACN. About 200 guests took part raising $16,000.
“We are incredibly grateful to Jane and Irene,” ACN founder Steve Drakoulis said.
“This event raised over $16,000 for us. It will allow us to do so much more for families struggling for support out there.”
Mr Drakoulis started the organisation in 2011 and said the organisation runs off donations and grants.
“We would shut the doors if we did not get this type of support. We keep growing and it is harder and harder to operate,” Mr Drakoulis told the Leader earlier this year.
Ms Theo has received help from the organisation in the past, with a child on the autism spectrum, and said it was a great night at the gala dinner.
“The community really came together in support of such a great cause.”
Oatley MP Mark Coure and Canterbury MP Sophie Cotsis both took part in the event.