The gala showcased talent from neurodivergent participants like DJ On the Rocks, an autistic recipient of AAG's Dreams come true program and aspiring world renowned DJ. He gave a wonderful Afrobeat performance with smooth transitions and lots of positive energy.

DJ On the Rocks, also known by friends and family as Moby, has been undergoing DJ lessons with a sensory-informed instructor for over two years now through funding from our Dreams come true program. This along with ongoing ABA Therapy helped drive a major improvement in his socials skills and overall confidence and we could'nt be more proud of the impact your support has helped drive in this boys life. 

Our keynote speaker, Delegate Kym Taylor of the Maryland House of Delegates, gave a moving speech describing her journey as a parent of an autistic child and how encouraged she was by the acts of service AAG provides to individuals like her son. She further mentioned the importance of engaging with law enforcement for sensitivity and informative training as AAG had done with Laurel Police so routine stops involving neurodivergent individuals have fewer negative outcomes. 

In light of this, she expressed an impassioned resolution to see Eric's ID Law passed despite it having been voted down in state congress earlier this year for reasons that still remain unclear. Eric's Law would have special indicators on the ID's of neurodivergent individuals so law enforcent and first responders so they engage with these participants with the proper approach based on their given condition. Delegate Taylor is an advocate for equal rights within the neurodivergent community within her representative districts. 

The events of the night were so inspiring, we were able to raise over $3000 on top of ticket sales in for our Assistive Technology Program that supplies graduating students of schools like The Childrens Guild of Prince Georges County and Cedar Lane with communications tablets since graduation means they have to leave their school-issued tablets behind. 

This potent show of support inspired us to take the initiative even further with a newly set goal of $12,000 for a total of $15,000 raised for communication iPads to all graduating students of these schools that need them as they transition out of the school system and into adult programs. We urge you to help us keep this momentum by donating today!