A diagnosis of autism is just the beginning of the journey for many B.C. families and an upcoming golf tournament and trade show will help smooth the path with funds raised going to the Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN).
"Families today are still faced with that challenge, once they get over the realization that their child has autism, of finding services," says Steve Saccomano, whose family is organizing the Saccomaniacs Golf Tournament and Trade Show at Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club in Coquitlam on Aug. 14.
"The Pacific Autism Family Network is Important because it provides diagnosis, treatment, support and programs for children, youth and young adults," Saccomano added.
The network opened a centre recently in Richmond, and funds from previous golf tournaments helped pay for the Saccomano Lifeskills Learning Classroom. Funds from this year's golf tournament are slated for the development of a PAFN outreach centre in Chilliwack, where the Saccomanos live.
Organizing a charity golf course is the Saccomano family's way of giving back after a member of their family needed support. It started nine years ago as a small family event and has grown to include a trade show and some 200 people are expected to attend.
"We as a family recognize and appreciate the need for services for families with loved ones with autism. This is our way of giving back to the autism community with the support of the agricultural sector," explained Saccomano, who works for the feed industry.
The agricultural industry will be front and centre at the event, said Saccomano, with culinary trade show booths, featuring Fraser Valley products, food and services as well a representatives from local businesses in agriculture, real estate and banking services.
To date, over $225,000 has been raised with the 2017 goal to surpass the $300,000 mark.
More information is available at www.saccomaniacsgolf.com
