30th annual Candlelight Ball to benefit Autism Foundation of Georgia

The 30th annual Candlelight Ball benefiting the Autism Foundation of Georgia is planned for 7 p.m. this Saturday, March 21, at the Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead.

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The organization supports programs and services for those affected by autism. It helped found continues to support  the Emory Autism Center, its programs for early intervention through the Walden School and its family and adult programs.

Proceeds from the Candlelight Ball support the foundation's many programs. Photo: Autism Foundation of Georgia

The group also support the Skills for Life programs, serving adults with autism.

Guests at last year's Candlelight Ball included Martha Jo Katz, far right. Photo: Autism Foundation of Georgia

The Candlelight Ball is one of Atlanta's most longstanding and successful events, and always draws a crowd of fashionable philanthropists. Photo: Autism Foundation of Georgia

Some harrowing stats from the foundation:

• 1 in 68 children will receive an Autism Spectrum diagnosis

• 1 in 54 boys is on the Autism Spectrum

• 1 in 242 girls is on the Autism Spectrum

• A new case is diagnosed almost every 20 minutes

• Autism costs a family $60,000 a year on average

• Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.

Saturday's "Diamond Anniversary" fundraiser will help address this growing need. The black-tie function will feature dinner, dancing and great auction items. Tickets are still available and donations can be made via the group's website.

For details on attending or sponsoring the event see this web site.

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