Unicorn Children's Foundation Casino a Success for Youth with Neurodiversity (December 10, 2012)
Boca Raton, FL -- December 10, 2012-- Over 200 patrons joined Unicorn Children’s Foundation at their 5thAnnual Denim, Diamonds and Dice Casino Night to honor Dr. Rafael and Lori Cabrera for their tireless efforts on behalf of those with neurodiversity! Over $90,000 was raised to support the opening of Unicorn Village Academy, a specialized strength-based high school for teens with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, bipolar, and other learning disorders. LA celebrity “Hugh Heffner” and his bunnies greeted guests as they arrived at The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach in their denim and sparkling diamonds ready to walk the red carpet. The real excitement started when event chairs Kathleen Grace, Sarah Hassan, and Tabitha LeTourneau announced that the gaming tables were open and guests scattered to Blackjack, Poker, Roulette, Craps, and Slots, all provided by Casino Party Nights Florida, Inc.. Unicorn Village Academy President Lori Cabrera expressed, “It takes a village to raise a child and we are so fortunate that our generous sponsors have chosen to invest in teens with neurodiversity.” Broward Bank of Commerce, Bank United, Sunshine State Health Plan, NAV-TV, Gregory’s Fine Jewelry, Tsars Vodkawere among the generous sponsors who realized the importance of investing in the special needs population. Many other prominent local businesses demonstrated their commitment through contributions to the auction and prize raffle. In a surprising move, Clive and Margery Cholerton and Sandra Rubin donated their cash winnings back to the foundation. Unicorn Children’s Foundation Executive Director, Sharon Alexander, explained “The generosity of our sponsors and guests will support the development of on innovative high school for 14-22 year old adolescents with developmental and learning differences that will foster social, emotional, and academic student development using the individual’s own strengths and interests as the foundation for learning.” With nearly 1 of every 6 children affected by some form of neurodiversity, this program will help to fill a significant void in the community and will become a model that can be expanded into other communities around the world. Anticipated opening of this program is projected for August 2013. Make sure to stay tuned for Unicorn Children’s Foundation’s upcoming events… The Best Is Yet To Come! Visit the www.UnicornChildrensFoundation.org or call 561.620.9377 for more information and to learn how you can get involved. Unicorn Children Foundation (UCF) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to education, awareness and research initiatives that will transform the lives of individuals with neurodiversity, such as ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, Dyslexia, and other learning disorders. UCF was founded in 1994 by Dr Mark Rosenbloom, an Emergency Physician, after his son was misdiagnosed and inappropriately treated by one "autism professional" after another. Out of his pain and frustration, and a wish to provide hope for all families with children who suffer from these disorders, the Unicorn Children's Foundation was born. Since 1994, UCF has raised well over $10,000,000 and highlights of its accomplishments include: launching the Interdisciplinary Council on Development and Learning Disorders, developing and disseminating worldwide ground-breaking and extensive evaluation and treatment guidelines; fostering communication and collaboration between parents, professionals and policy makers to promote learning and increased awareness; and providing adequate tools and resources to better meet the needs of individuals with neurodiversity.