White party fundraiser benefits autism foundation

Tiffany Autism Foundation's third annual White Party will be held July 14 at 6 p.m. at the Oregon Golf Club.

The party benefits Walk Now for Autism Speaks and is primarily sponsored by the Harold and Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, as well as Fairplay Realty Elite.

The event's schedule boasts walking the white carpet, and both a silent and oral auction, which feature items donated by community members as well as business owners from both Seaside and Dundee.

The night will also include a beer, wine and cocktail hour sponsored by Pete's Mountain Winery, gaming, dancing, a raffle and a late-night snack.

"There will be another white carpet, where you will be greeted by the paparazzi and have the chance to have your picture taken as you make your entrance into the event. We will also be bringing back the VIP lounge with a custom-sponsored cocktail for the willing," stated Craig Tiffany, founder of Tiffany Autism Foundation.

The first White Party in 2010 raised $5,000 for Walk Now for Autism Speaks, a total which was almost doubled the following year with a total of $9,000.

The first White Party was held in honor of Tiffany's wife's 40th birthday. Instead of gifts, they asked that guests make a donation to their team for the 2010 Walk Now for Autism Speaks event in Portland.

Tiffany is aiming to more than double last year's total with help from both sponsors such as the Harold and Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation as well as individuals attending the event.

Tiffany started the foundation in response to his son Connor's diagnosis.

"Autism affected our family in ways I never would have imagined," Tiffany stated on his website. "The effects of autism have made me a better man, with more patience and understanding than I ever would have had if it weren't for Connor."

He said one of the greatest challenges in putting together this event has been time, as both he and his wife work outside the home. Tiffany also said the event is shaping up to be a success largely thanks to support from friends, family, coworkers, the Autism Speaks Organization and the Oregon Golf Club, which have "made the planning of this event far simpler than we anticipated."

With the venue already booked for next year, this year's event promises to be a fun-filled evening benefitting a great cause. Although the party is limited to 120 people and tickets are selling quickly, there are still some available. Tickets are $75 each.

If you are interested in attending, visit eticketexpress.com/performance/4281526.

For more information about Tiffany Austism Foundation, visit tiffanyautismfoundation.org.