For one Cork-based charity 2018 is year of special significance as they celebrate their 40th anniversary in style.
The story of the Cork Association for Autism (CAA) begins back in the late seventies, when a group of families in the Cork region were left frustrated at the lack of information, knowledge and fundamental support services available to those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. These pioneering founding families came together in determination to secure their children’s futures and armed with nothing but sheer perseverance and belief in their cause, they founded the Cork Association for Autism in 1978.
If the journey taken by the CAA over the past four decades has proven one thing, it’s this; from humble beginnings indeed do come great things. Over the years the CAA has expanded from a five-bedroom residential property to today providing professional autism support services from six centres across Cork City and County to over 300 adults, who are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. Support services provided by the organisation have flourished and now include, residential and respite care, day service facilities, home supports and an Asperger Syndrome support services.

Pictured at the launch of the Cork Association for Autism’s 40th Anniversary ‘Light it up Blue’ Gala Ball are from L-R; Barry O’Neill of the ‘BOOM’ band, Carol Walsh Fundraising Coordinator Cork Association for Autism, and Chris Jones of the Boom band, who will be keeping guests entertained the night of the Gala. The Gala will take place on Saturday April 14.
Maureen Cronin, long-serving member of the association, says that; “We have come a long way in the past 40 years; there is no denying there is a much better understanding for Autism nowadays.” However, “with more than one in 100 individuals now being diagnosed as on the Autism Spectrum, we need the support of the public now more than ever before.”
Every year the Cork Association for Autism hosts a Gala Ball in April to mark International Autism Awareness Month. The theme of the Gala is ‘Light it up Blue’, as blue is the official colour for Autism.
The black-tie event will take place on Saturday April 14 at the Maryborough Hotel & Spa in Douglas and will celebrate the strides that have been taken towards a better understanding and awareness of autism over the years. This year the charity are calling on the people of Cork to join them in celebrating their past in style as they look forward to an even brighter future. On arrival to the gala, guests will be greeted with a complimentary drinks reception followed by a delectable four course meal and entertainment from the dynamic BOOM band and DJ until late.

Pictured at the launch of the Cork Association for Autism’s 40th Anniversary ‘Light it up Blue’ Gala Ball are from L-R; Barry O’Neill of the ‘BOOM’ band, Carol Walsh Fundraising Coordinator Cork Association for Autism, and Chris Jones of the Boom band, who will be keeping guests entertained the night of the Gala. The Gala will take place on Saturday April 14th.
Tickets for a wonderful evening of festivities, fine food and wonderful entertainment are now on sale at just €80 p/p, tables of 10 are available. If you would like to book tickets, sponsor the event or make a donation, contact Carol Walsh on fundraising@corkautism.ie o