The Autism Society San Diego is holding our 14th annual Splash for Cash fundraiser on Sunday, April 24, 2016. This is an all day, fun pool party where all of the participants have raised money for our Pool PALS program and family pool and gym nights. We are seeking donations for our silent auction to be held the day of the event. We are also seeking businesses and individuals to sponsor the Splash for Cash.

Each year we have hundreds of autistic kids and adults take part in these activities. The Splash for Cash proceeds fund our adaptive swimming lesson program, Surf Camp for Persons with Autism and monthly, free, family pool and gym nights. Autism currently affects 1 in 68 children. The need and demand for these programs grows every year. Not only are these programs important for our families, but the funds raised help save lives. Drowning is the leading cause of death in autistic children under the age of 14 years.

There is no better way to share with you the impact these programs have on our families than to share an actual letter from one of our families. “It is so hard to describe how fantastic the Pool PALS program is without tearing up. We have discovered a whole new side of our son D—a side that loves the water and loves his “special” time with Ms. Carrie! For years, we did what we thought was everything possible to introduce him to the water—playing, squirting, sliding, wading— but nothing seemed to work. Because we have two other children who are teenagers, our family vacations have always involved visiting lakes and beaches, and enjoying the water. Now because of the amazing progress that our son has shown since he started Pool PALS, we can now plan a beach vacation that can involve the entire family! Since Pool PALS, D jumps into pools and actually enjoys floating on the surface. The thought of that before was unimaginable! He even allows us to rinse his hair now! To most people this seems very basic, but for us it was a dreaded daily chore that used all of our energy, patience and stamina! Thank you so very much for giving our entire family hope!” --Cesar, D’s Dad

The Autism Society San Diego is committed to providing our programs at a very low cost or no cost for our families. The lifetime cost of raising an autistic child is over $3 million. Families often struggle with the many financial demands facing them. The Splash for Cash is one of the many ways we raise the necessary funds to fulfill our goals and mission. Every contribution we receive helps changes lives for the better. Please consider contributing to this very important cause. Thank you for consideration of this request.