Celebrities, tapas and autism may sound like an unusual mix. However, it’s a recipe for a fun-tastic fundraising event — one that hits close to home for many families, including David Baskin’s clan.
The bar manager of the Langley Milestone’s is the catalyst for the restaurant’s third annual Milestones Autism Awareness Night.
“This all started as a way to raise awareness for autism by supporting one of our own,” explained Rick Hilliard, general manager of the dining establishment that is no stranger to philanthropy.
To date, the Langley Milestones, located at 20075 Langley Bypass, has raised more than $8,500 during their first two charity functions.
When it came to choosing their latest fundraiser, they chose one that hit close to home.
“David’s son is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and the more we learned, the more we knew that this cause was important,” noted Hilliard.
On April 29 at 4 p.m. everyone is invited to attend the red carpet fundraising event, which will include live acoustic sets and celebrity appearances — Mitch Berger, former NFL Superbowl champion, Craig MacEwen from Sportsnet and Kari Culjat, last year’s winner of Langley Has Talent — just to name a few.
There will also be silent auctions, tasty canapes and refreshments, including Cask beer by Howe Sound Brewing.
Tickets ($20) will be available for purchase online or directly at the door the day of the event. All proceeds from the sales, including gratuities, will go to the BC Autism Society and Harmony House Centre for autism research and education.
While Baskin says his own son, Jack, 8, is fortunate to receive plenty of help, not all autistic children and their families are as lucky.
“Jack is the product of a lot of hard work by a lot of great people. Our goal is to get the same help we get for him for every family in Canada. More than ever, these families who have children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder need support, advocacy and awareness — especially right here in our community.”
The Milestones Langley team is looking forward to seeing the community once again band together and rally behind a great cause for a third time.
“Come out and support a great cause — we don’t see a dime other than on the food purchases... it’s just a great event. Do something for a worthy cause —we’d love to have you.”
For more information as well as a preview of auction items and performers can be viewed on their Facebook event page Milestones Langley Third Annual Autism Awareness Night.
Milestones Grill & Bar was established in 1989 and is part of Cara Operations Limited.