In November 2011, Iryna Dutko, Sara McIntyre and Jessica Moro hosted a joint birthday party to raise funds for the Geneva Centre for Autism. The event was Carnival themed, featuring décor and food generously donated by friends and the community. About 130 friends and family members showed up in full costumes to help celebrate, raising over $400 for the Centre.

Aecon Buildings set to brighten up the lives of young children with autism for years to come

TORONTO, September 2011 – Aecon Buildings became Geneva Centre for Autism’s latest trailblazer by donating $41,900 to help fund the Centre’s children’s building at 164 Merton Street. The generous donation was raised from the annual Aecon Buildings GTA Charity Golf Day held on June 28th 2011. With an ever increasing number of children being diagnosed with autism, the Centre plans to use the donation to create a space for children with autism to learn the essential skills that will enable them to realize their potential.

Now in its 10th year, Aecon Buildings GTA Charity Golf Day attracted 144 enthusiastic golfers. 36 teams made up of Aecon Buildings’ employees and subcontractors teed-off at the fabulous 18-acre Rattlesnake Country Club for a great cause. Frank Ross, President of Aecon Buildings Group says “Aecon Buildings’ fundraising efforts for our Annual Charity Golf Event, are a direct result of the strong and lasting relationships we foster with our subcontractors. We would not have raised the $41,900 for the Geneva Centre for Autism without their dedication to the worthy cause and to Aecon Buildings. We are very pleased Aecon was able to raise funds for much needed programs for children, youth and adults living with Autism”.

The annual tournament is part of Aecon Buildings’ commitment to build closer relationships and have a positive impact on communities where they conduct business. Arlene Mercurio, Executive Assistant to Frank Ross, chose Geneva Centre for Autism as the charity of choice following a suggestion from Adelina Cotognini, who works as a Proposal Coordinator for Aecon Buildings. Adelina whose son, Adamo, has autism has seen first hand what difference proper training can do for a child with autism.

With nothing but praise for Geneva Centre for Autism, Adelina says “I have seen an immense improvement in Adamo’s ability to make friends and socialize after attending Geneva Centre’s Social Skills Building Program. The Program has thought him to how talk and interrelate to his peers, how to share, play and just have fun by being himself”.

On Saturday, September 11th 2010, the Triangle Community Group hosted its 3rd Annual Beach Triangle Charity Funfest. It was a beautiful day, and close to 300 neighbours and friends gathered to enjoy the festivities! From a bouncy castle and face painting to a BBQ, local artisans' market and an amazing Silent Auction; there truly was something for everyone. The event raised over $2,000 for Geneva Center for Autism.