When you come to the world’s most beautiful island, it helps if you plan to have fun. There is so much to do to support so many very worthy causes, and August is the month when celebrations are everywhere you turn. One fundraiser that I support is Walk Now for Autism Speaks:
Nantucket Walks to Support Autism Speaks on August 20th
There are so many important organizations we can support with our time, with our resources, or simply with a caring hand. One that I believe in and support is Autism Speaks.
While no one has all the answers yet, I have long believed that it is important to protect your family from environmental toxins. The Autism Research Institute at www.autism.com has information about studies showing the possible relationship between chemicals in our environment and developmental delays.
Autism is a complex developmental disability that causes problems with social interaction and communication, and is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the U.S. Symptoms usually start before age three, and can cause delays or problems in many different skills, according to the National Institute of Child Health & Human Development.
For families with a child with an autism diagnosis, there are many concerns, including higher medical bills, special needs in school, and a struggle to provide the treatment and therapies to help each child grow into his or her best self.
Bob and Suzanne Wright discuss autism on Plum TV.
Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, grandparents of a child with autism. The organization is dedicated to increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders, to funding research into the causes, prevention and treatments for autism, and to advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
On Saturday, August 20th, thousands of islanders on Nantucket will turn out at Jetties Beach to help raise funds for vital research. Walk Now for Autism Speaks can change the future for all who struggle with autism. Join us!
Find out more at www.walknowforautismspeaks.org.
Don’t miss a new film made exclusively for the NHA by Emmy award-winning Ric Burns, simply called Nantucket. This original short film showcases the island’s natural beauty and its significant role in history. Commentary is provided by historians, islanders and writers, including New York Times best-selling author Nathaniel Philbrick, and long-time residents who share their personal stories and unique insights.
The film is being shown daily at the Whaling Museum, and can be purchased as a DVD at the Museum Shop or online for $19.95.
August Race Week: August 13-21
The eight day Race Week brings the entire Nantucket community together for regattas, award ceremonies and parties. There’s fun and sport for all age and sailing levels. The week is hosted by the Nantucket Yacht Club and Great Harbor Yacht Club and benefits Nantucket Community Sailing.
Nantucket Race Week is proud to be a Clean Regatta as certified by Sailors for the Sea.
For more information, visit www.nantucketraceweek.org
Nature Conservancy Cocktail Party
Last but not least, Frank and I are pleased to host a cocktail party reception at our home on August 25th, to benefit the Nature Conservancy. The Nature Conservancy works to preserve the plants, animals and natural communities of the earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive, in order to leave a sustainable world for future generations.
Dujardin Design Associates will provide the raw bar, food and beverages as our contribution to the evening and to the good work of the Conservancy. Island caterer Simply with Style will make this a delicious and fun event!
For more information on how you can help this wonderful organization, visit www.nature.org.