Funday Beach Bash — Autism awareness benefit at the Lani Kai Sunday, Sept. 13 brings out all the blue
Blue Crayonz, Inc., a local charity program dedicated to helping children and adults on the autism spectrum, will be hosting a family friendly Funday Beach Bash Sunday, Sept. 13, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Lani Kai Island Resort, 1400 Estero Blvd., raising funds, support and autism awareness, featuring painting on the beach, contests, prizes and more.
“This event is near and dear to my heart, because not only are we bringing awareness for Blue Crayonz, Inc., but we are also bringing awareness to those who serve in our community,” said Veronica Banchs, founder of Blue Crayonz and coordinator of the Sunday benefit. “We will have several non-profit organizations from our community bringing awareness to the services they provide, including PADLS, a swim program for autistic and special needs kids.”
Veronica let’s us know what we can look forward to Sunday. “Look forward to a day filled with education on local programs available, lots of entertainment and a lot of people rocking blue.”
In fact, those attending are encouraged to wear blue and anyone wearing a blue swimsuit is encouraged to partake in the contest that day. “This contest is being held to promote and inspire a positive body image for all women and men no matter your size, height or ethnicity. Be comfortable in your skin and have fun while wearing blue this Sunday,” Veronica encouraged.
For those of you looking to explore your creative side, enjoy painting on the beach during the Sunday beachside benefit. “Painting with a Twist will be hosting two classes open to anyone interested during the benefit, and you can register online at PaintingWithATwist.com. There is no charge to attend the benefit at all Sunday, except for those participating in the Painting with a Twist program and a portion of the proceeds from that will be donated to Blue Crayonz, Inc.”
Veronica is eager to host this benefit on Fort Myers Beach, a true family friendly and well-united community. “I chose Fort Myers Beach and the Lani Kai for this benefit because of the wonderful community and because the resort is a locally owned establishment. They are very well known in the community and have been very supportive of my organization. I enjoy working with local organizations and businesses that are supportive of one another,” Veronica explained. “This event is to bring awareness to those who serve our community. As a thank-you for the services they are providing, I have collected donations for them to raffle off as a way to help them raise funds for their organization at this event.”
Along with plenty of raffles, prizes, contests and crafts, this family friendly event will also host an array of drink specials, live music and more.
The Lani Kai will provide a one-trip buffet for $10 per person that day (when purchasing tickets to Painting with a Twist for $15, a trip to the buffet and one domestic beer will be offered). The menu will feature tossed salad, Italian beef sandwiches, pasta salad, hot dogs, taco salad, chicken wings, penne marinara and assorted cookies for dessert.
About the organization
Officially established in December 2014, Blue Crayonz, Inc. is a unique referral-based program dedicated to helping children and adults on the autism spectrum receive community services. The group prides itself in helping those individuals shine by finding them services to fit their needs.
Working directly with teachers, professionals and family members, they discover services that could help them thrive as well as showcase their talents.
Other upcoming events and benefits on the charity’s calendar includes:
Sept. 20: Setting up at the eighth annual Peace Day in the Park, Cape Coral.
Nov. 14: One of the featured charities at the Fort Myers Beach Back Bay Bash.
Nov. 28: One of the featured charities at Six Bends Harley Davidson’s annual Small Business Saturday Market.
Dec. 12: Hosting an event alongside the Florida Everblades at Germain Arena. Half of all proceeds raised will be donated to the non-profits that serve our community. “So, look forward to a huge turnout filled with love and support from our community,” Veronica said.
If interested in doing your part to help the organization grow and flourish, the founder says, “We are always looking for volunteers and those who will get out into the community and support those who help make it a better place. I would like for people to be aware that this is not just a program but a movement. Working alongside other non-profits, business owners and volunteers, we want to spread awareness, love and equality. We hope to someday make the world we live in today a better place for all of us.”
For further information on Blue Crayonz, Inc., or to volunteer for the cause, visit BlueCrayonzInc.org.