On October 3, Autism Society San Diego will celebrate its 60th Anniversary at Town & Country Resort for an evening themed Shine Bright Like a Diamond. The milestone event will bring together community members, supporters, and partners for a night of dinner, entertainment, and meaningful connection while honoring those who have helped shape the organization’s legacy. A highlight of the evening will be the recognition of three Community Champions whose contributions represent the organization’s past, present, and future.
Honoring the past, Autism Society San Diego will recognize Tammy Anderson, whose vision helped launch the organization’s Surf Camp and aquatic programs in 2001. Surf Camp has become one of the organization’s signature programs, providing autistic individuals with the opportunity to build confidence, develop water safety skills, and experience the joy and therapeutic benefits of surfing in a supportive environment. In addition to Surf Camp, Anderson helped establish a swimming lesson program through her company, Aqua Pros, that has equipped countless families with lifesaving water skills.
“They say that swimming is a life skill, but for the autism community, it is often a lifesaving one,” Anderson shared with GB Magazine. “I am humbled to be recognized on this milestone occasion. I merely had the idea to create unique aquatic programs, but it has been a journey with a team of dedicated individuals who have supported the vision to make it a reality.”
Celebrating the present, the organization will honor the YMCA of San Diego County for its longstanding partnership through Camp I CAN. Launched in 2001 with a single location in central San Diego, Camp I CAN provides a fun, safe, and nurturing day camp experience with a one-to-one staff-to-camper ratio. Today, the program operates at the Ecke YMCA, Toby Wells YMCA, and the newly added McGrath Family YMCA.
“The YMCA of San Diego County is proud to have partnered with the Autism Society for the past 25 years,” said CEO Todd Tibbits. “Our partnership through Camp I CAN has allowed us to collectively serve autistic individuals and their families in more meaningful and supportive environments. We look forward to the next 25 years of partnership.”
Looking ahead, Autism Society San Diego will recognize the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) for shaping a more inclusive future. SDTA is leading efforts to make San Diego a Certified Autism Destination, helping ensure that visitors of all abilities feel welcomed and supported. A significant first step in that journey was achieving Certified Autism Center status.
“San Diego welcomes all, and this designation underscores that commitment,” said Daniel Kuperschmid, President and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority. “Achieving Certified Autism Center status is an important milestone, and we are excited to continue working toward destination-wide certification, so every visitor feels supported when they visit San Diego.”
As Autism Society San Diego celebrates six decades of service, the anniversary event will not only honor the individuals and organizations that have made a difference but also reaffirm the organization’s commitment to building a more inclusive and supportive community for future generations.
For more information about the 60th Anniversary Celebration, including sponsorship opportunities and ticket purchases, visit Autism Society San Diego’s website at www.autismsocietysandiego.org/diamond-anniversary-gala.
