The Grant a Gift Autism Foundation will host its 16th Annual Grant a Gift Gala on Thursday, Oct. 22, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Allegiant Stadium. The evening marks 10 years of the foundation’s Ackerman Center and is expected to bring more than 1,200 guests onto the stadium field.
Funds raised will support individuals and families living with autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions across Nevada. Organizers chose the theme “patterns and prints” to reflect the individuality of the neurodivergent community.
Event Details and Honorees
Holly Madison, a New York Times bestselling author and television personality who has spoken openly about her own autism diagnosis as an adult, returns as the event ambassador. Smile Generation and the Blue Man Group will be honored during the program. Guests can expect gourmet dining, live entertainment and a curated auction.
Ticket details, including VIP packages, are available at grantagift.com/events.
**Rising Need for Services**
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in 2025 that 1 in 31 children in the United States is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, up from 1 in 36 in the previous cycle. Brian Hager, president and CEO of the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation, said demand for specialized autism services in Nevada continues to exceed available resources.
Founded in 2009, the organization operates the Ackerman Center and offers clinical services, family support, and community programs throughout Southern Nevada.
Keeping Progress Moving Forward
Large community events and local nonprofits play an important role in raising awareness and funding.
Many families also look for consistent, individualized support that helps their child strengthen communication, manage emotions, and build everyday independence so they can take part more fully in family life, school, and the community.
That kind of focused help is what we provide at Nevada Autism through compassionate, customized ABA therapy.
Our Therapists begin by closely observing how a child already communicates, what holds their attention, and where they get stuck. From there, we create realistic goals that match the child’s current abilities and adjust them as new skills appear. We will talk you through matters of Insurance early enough to clear your doubts.
So if this feels worth exploring, hop in; reach out to us when you’re ready. We’ll go over your situation and help you decide whether it fits your family.
