Photos: The Flutie Foundation Night

Check out scenes from the May 6, 2017, event at the Shine Gala.

On May 6, The Flutie Foundation’s Night to Shine Gala raised approximately $275,000 as well as received a check for $226,000 from Get Air Trampoline Parks. The more than $500,000 raised will go to funding programs and special initiatives supporting families affected by autism. At the Gala, Doug Flutie, Scott Brown, and Danny Klein from J Giels Band, played with the “Flutie Brothers Band.” Another highlight was the performance of United Sound and players from the Boston Symphony Orchestra. United Sound is a non-profit charity that provides musical performance experiences for students with special needs through peer mentorship.

Autism affects one out of every 68 children. The goal of the Flutie Foundation is to help families affected by autism live life to the fullest. Through their programs and partnerships, they help people with autism get access to care, lead more active lifestyles, and grow toward adult independence.The Flutie Foundation’s “A Night to Shine” Gala raises critical funding to support programs and partnerships that are helping children and families affected by autism live life to the fullest.

Former NFL Quarterback, Doug Flutie, and his wife Laurie started the Doug Flutie, Jr. Flutie Foundation for Autism in 1998 after their son, Dougie, was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. Their personal experience of raising a son on the autism spectrum inspired them to help others on an equally long and challenging journey. Over its 18-year history, the Flutie Foundation has distributed over $14 million to schools and organizations who provide clinical therapies, respite services, recreational programs, social skills training, job supports, and more for people affected by autism. The Flutie Foundation also provides education technology tools, adaptive camp scholarships, safety equipment, and direct family support through its special programs. The Flutie Foundation’s newest initiative, Flutie Spectrum Enterprises, will create businesses to employ adults with autism.

Freda and Jay Kennedy and Christine Montilio / Photo by Jennifer Nourse Photography

Dr. and Mrs. Cramer, Susan Wornick and Margie Tierney / Photo by Jennifer Nourse Photography

Dr. Gerald Miley and Dorothy Krysiuk / Photo by Jennifer Nourse Photography

Chris Connely, Mike and Sandra Anastasi / Photo by Jennifer Nourse Photography

Honoree Leone Family / Photo by Jennifer Nourse Photography

Jack Tierney and Board Members Dr. and Mrs. Cantu / Photo by Jennifer Nourse Photography

Joel Riley, Ralph Poland and Melissa Guzek / Photo by Jennifer Nourse Photography

Leone Family with Doug Flutie / Photo by Jennifer Nourse Photography

Scott Brown, Susan Wornick, Doug Flutie and Margie Tierney / Photo by Jennifer Nourse Photography