On Saturday, Oct. 11, 400+ advocates, families, and community leaders will gather at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel for the Autism Speaks Miami Gala—an evening filled with purpose, passion, and progress. Together, we’ll celebrate inclusion, honor extraordinary leaders, and strengthen resources for the 70,000 individuals with autism across South Florida.

This year, we are proud to recognize Commissioner Raquel Regalado as our Beacon of Light Award honoree. A mother of two autistic young adults, she has turned personal experience into public leadership, championing education, accessibility, and community inclusion at every level.

We will also pay tribute to Thomas Whitehurst, a founding board member whose vision helped shape the autism movement in South Florida and inspired the creation of Casa Familia.

In his honor, the Whitehurst Family and Casa Familia will be celebrated as our Family of the Year, carrying forward his legacy of love, leadership, and inclusion.

This is more than a gala—it is a catalyst to create lasting pathways to independence, opportunity, and advocacy for all. Join us as we light the way forward.