AUTISM SPEAKS AND DEE
OCLEPPO CELEBRATE MOTHERS IN
AUTISM COMMUNITY AT “MOM 4 MOMS” LUNCHEON
Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy
organization, hosted a Mother’s Day “Moms 4 Moms” luncheon
at The Lambs Club in New York City Wednesday, May 1. This
celebration of motherhood honored Autism Speaks national
board member, fashion designer and former model Dee Ocleppo,
and mothers within the autism community.
The moms enjoyed cocktails, food and a special mother’s day
gift from Dee as show of recognition for their love and
support of their families. The event also recognized Dee’s
generous donation of handbags from her DEESIGNS line now
available through the Autism Speaks online store,
www.shop.autismspeaks.org .
Through the sale of the handbags, with an estimated value of
close to $300,000, 100 percent of the proceeds fund the
mission of Autism Speaks. The organization also announced
its Mother’s Day special: each of the bags will be on sale
from now until May 12 for $88 – representing the one in 88
children affected by autism. The special also includes free
shipping until Mother’s Day.
About Autism
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex
developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders –
caused by a combination of genes and environmental
influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying
degrees, by communication difficulties, social and
behavioral challenges, as well as repetitive behaviors. An
estimated one in 88 children in the U.S. is on the autism
spectrum – a 78 percent increase in six years that is only
partly explained by improved diagnosis.
About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and
advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research
into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for
autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders;
and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and
their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005
by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with
autism. Mr. Wright is the former vice chairman of General
Electric and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC
Universal. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed
more than $195 million to research and developing innovative
resources for families. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks
events are held in more than 100 cities across North
America. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established
partnerships and related activities in more than 40
countries on five continents to foster international
research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism
Speaks,
please visit
www.AutismSpeaks.org .
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