JACKSON – The Westlake Tennis Club recently held its annual fundraiser to benefit Autism New Jersey in the ballroom of the Westlake Golf and Country Club.
Member Linda Lafer said this event was started in 2003 by Howard Lazan, a Westlake resident, who wanted to help his nephew who has autism.
She added that in 2007, Arlene and Steve Friedland became co-chairpersons in continuing the mission to enhance services for families.
“This special day began with mixed doubles round robin tennis matches at the Westlake courts, including a continental breakfast. The activities were later followed by a wine and cheese party and ballroom buffet dinner-dance,” Lafer added.
She said, “Memories performed songs from the 50s, 60s, and 70s with DJ Pete providing dance music before and after the band. In addition, 50/50 raffle drawings were also held with three lucky winners picked.”
Lafer said a highlight of the evening was the guest speaker, Dr. Suzanne Buchanan who serves as the executive director of Autism New Jersey. “She emphasized that the purpose of this important non-profit organization, based in Hamilton, New Jersey, is to support children and adults with autism.”
She thanked the members of the Westlake community for donating to this meaningful charity, she said, in addition to the sponsors.
Lafer was pleased to note that “thanks to the approximately 157 generous tennis club members and their guests, over $117, 000 has been raised to date for this very worthwhile cause. Howard Lazan’s legacy will continue into the foreseeable future and is a fitting tribute to such an outstanding human being.”
Buchanan said “according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), one in 34 children are identified with autism spectrum disorder in New Jersey, one of the highest prevalence rates in the country.
Autism New Jersey is an advocacy organization supporting families and professionals for more than 55 years. They seek to connect individuals with autism with effective treatments and meaningful opportunities, she added.
Members of the Westlake Tennis Club gather during a recent fundraiser they hold each year to benefit Autism New Jersey at the Westlake Golf and Country Club in Jackson. (Photo courtesy Westlake Tennis Club)
Dr. Buchanan noted during her remarks to the event’s attendees that “events like the Westlake fundraiser are so important as they offer a place for people to connect, and at Autism New Jersey, connection is everything.”
“Autism New Jersey is a hub of information, support, and statewide policy change. The funds raised support our 800.4.AUTISM helpline that takes calls from thousands of families each year, our advocacy to enact laws that increase access to treatment, and our awareness and acceptance efforts across the state,” she added.
The group also maintains a registry to link families with health care management and other services. It also provides accurate counts of people on the spectrum to better inform policies and what services are needed.
Dr. Buchanan added, “we thank everyone who helped make the event a success and for making a difference in New Jersey’s autism community.”
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