Broward County community leaders who support the University of Miami–Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD) and are dedicated to helping those who suffer from autism spectrum disorders will be honored at the initiative’s third annual Autumn Moonlight Cocktail Reception on Saturday, October 23 at 7:30 p.m. at Grande Oaks Golf Club in Davie, Florida.

The event, which benefits UM-NSU CARD, will honor Wren S. Newman, associate dean for the Programs in Speech-Language and Communication Disorders of the Fischler School of Education and Human Services at Nova Southeastern University, and the Unicorn Children’s Foundation, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to education, awareness, and research on behalf of children with learning and communication disorders.

Sports reporter Donovan Campbell, of WSVN Channel 7, will be the master of ceremonies and will host the live auction of items, which include a one-of-a-kind painting by artist Lisa Botto Lee, VIP ticket packages to Miami Dolphins football games, and vacation packages. Singer, songwriter, and pianist Kawan DeBose will perform, and attendees will include Autumn Moonlight Honorary Chairs Jeff and Rachel Ireland, Miami Dolphins Head Coach Tony Sparano and Jeanette Sparano, and NSU President Ray Ferrero. The event will feature an open bar courtesy of Bacardi USA and a variety of hors d’oeuvres and sweet nibbles.

The event is the signature fundraiser for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at Nova Southeastern University, and proceeds will fund free programs, services, and research initiatives for the more than 5,400 individuals with autism, their families, and the professionals who serve them in the Broward area.

UM-NSU CARD is a South Florida nonprofit organization committed to providing free family support, outreach, and educational support services to children and adults of all levels of intellectual functioning. The center provides services for families throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe Counties, which include technical assistance and consultation, parent and professional training programs, and public education activities. UM-NSU CARD supports research in a variety of disciplines to better understand the causes and potential treatments for the disorder.

Tax-deductible sponsorships and tickets are still available. For more information about the event, call 305-284-9126 or visit www.cardatutmnmoonlight.org.