Tuesday, April 15, 2008

May 3: American Idol Finalist To Sing At Autism Benefit Concert

The Autism non-profit organization, The Friendship Network for Children, Inc., will host a benefit concert with guest performer 2006 American Idol contestant Ayla Brown. The Saturday, May 3 concert features Alexis Ohanian, experienced vocalist and Massachusetts native, and other New England musicians, too . The concert runs from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Medway High's theater and is made possible with the support of the Medway Public School’s Special Education Parent Advisory Council. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online at http://www.networkforchildren.org/ Red Sox memorabilia, gift baskets, and gift certificates will be given away as door prizes. There will be meet and greet time with Ayla Brown, too.
“We want to do more than just raise money,” says Nancy Swanberg, Founder and Executive Director of The Friendship Network. “We want to raise awareness of the emotional world of children with autism. Many interventions try to correct symptoms without regard to feelings; we take the whole child into consideration.” Swanberg said she founded this organization because of the extreme loneliness and isolation that often goes untreated in children with autism.
Alexis Ohanian, music therapist at The Friendship Network, explains the need for this concert. “Working here, I have seen first-hand the confusion of the children when they first arrive. After working with them, I see their quality of life dramatically improve.”
Ohanian said she is happy to use her singing to support a cause she deeply believes in.
For additional information on The Friendship Network for Children, to buy concert tickets, or make a donation, visit http://www.networkforchildren.org/

About The Friendship Network for Children, Inc: An award-winning non-profit organization in Central Massachusetts serving children with autism, families, and professionals.

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