On Sunday, May 21st over 100 NYC residents gathered at the Bay Plaza Mall, who graciously sponsored their space for the 3rd Annual Champs for Autism Fashion Show hosted by Alaina Reid. The event organized by High Society Event Management included performances from Teen Philly School, Persia Wilcox and Qew Lunel. The models who participated ripped the runway in clothes sponsored by the GAP KIDS ranging from formal-wear, career-wear, and spring-wear.
Although Autism Awareness Month is observed in April, Bronx Moms, Advocates and Business Owners have banned together to ensure the message around tolerance and acceptance for children affected by autism continues. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 1 in 68 children born in the US today will be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Champs For Autism, founded by Dr. Stephannie L Addo-Zuniga and inspired by her son Jacob, was created as a platform for her son and other children to have a safe place to make new friends, engage in recreational activities and most importantly feel empowered.
The children all slayed the runway provided by NY Led Furniture and were trained by Teen Philly School, while Bronx Native, Ejay The Dj provided music for the entire event. Each participant was awarded citations on behalf of New York City provided by Councilman Rafael Salamanca Jr.
“I am completely overwhelmed with joy when I reflect on how much the show has grown since it’s inception three years ago. I am so thankful to all of the sponsors, and volunteers who worked not only to make this event a success but most importantly support autism awareness. We look forward to expanding our programming and long term building our own school which will provide academic and recreational support for children with autism,” said Dr. Stephannie L Addo-Zuniga, Champs For Autism.
For more if information on Champs For Autism: www.champsforautism.com