Philanthropists Knighted, Chivalry Reigns for Children and Young Adults with Neurodiverse Disorders (February 29, 2012)
Boca Raton FL – February 29, 2012 – Unicorn Children’s Foundation hosted its Annual Black & White Knights Gala on Saturday, February 25, 2012 at the Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach, Florida. Guests were transported back to a time of chivalry and nobility where they joined the crusade to improve the quality of life of children and young adults with neurodiverse disorders, such as ADHD, Asperger’s, Autism, Bipolar, Dyslexia, and other Learning Disorders. Nearly $300,000 was raised to support the foundation’s education, awareness and research programs that will ensure children and young adults with neurodiverse disorders lead productive and fulfilled lives. During this magical blacktie evening, the honor of knighthood was conferred upon several generous gentlemen who have made significant financial contributions to the foundation. Founder Mark Rosenbloom bestowed this honor upon Fred Hassan of Bausch & Lomb, Dr. Sasson Moulavi of Smart for Life, J.D. Murphy of Computech, Inc., and Mike Rosenbloom, founder of Globe Communications. These chivalrous knights were presented with stunning Unicorn Shield cufflinks designed exclusively by Gregory’s Fine Jewelry and will be recognized in perpetuity as a member of the Order of the Unicorn. Wayne Player, son of legendary golfer Gary Player, “The Black Knight,” hosted the evening where significant bids were placed on magnificent auction items, including: a 7 day voyage for 2 aboard The World; Palm Beach County Sheriff for a Day; a fur coat donated by the Fur Salon at Saks Fifth Avenue Town Center; Wayne Player hosted trips to the Masters or South Africa, and a trip to the2012 Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix and Gala. Unicorn’s Executive Director, Sharon Alexander shared with the audience, “Over the next 15 years, more than 12 million children with neurodiverse disorders will reach adulthood in the U.S. alone and they will need jobs, housing, and supportive relationships. There is a significant gap in services and supports that shape these individuals’ strengths and interests into competitive advantages during this transition to adulthood.” Proceeds from the Gala will directly support Unicorn Children’s Foundation’s continued efforts, locally and worldwide, including the opening of Unicorn Village Academy. This innovative high school will allow students ages 14-21 to discover and explore their own interests, pursue their own goals, and prepare them for transition to work, college, and full participation in the communities in which they live. It is anticipated that, through our partnerships with local universities, an evidence-based model will be developed allowing this high school to be expanded into other communities around the world. Unicorn Children’s Foundation welcomes the community to join our crusade by supporting the foundation’s efforts through your generous donation of time, talent, and finances. For more information, please call (561) 620-9377 or visit www.unicornchildrensfoundation.org.