SOCIETY: Family Initiative 6th Annual Autism Acceptance Awards Gala

Open Audio Article Player Family Initiative hosts 6th Annual Autism Acceptance Awards Gala in downtown Fort Myers at Caloosa Sound Convention Center
By DAVID WISHTISCHIN
FLORIDA WEEKLY

Family Initiative’s Co-Founders, President, David Brown and Vice President, Anjali Van Drie. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

On April 25, 2026, Family Initiative hosted the 6th Annual Autism Acceptance Awards Gala. The gala broght the community together for an evening of celebrating individuals and organizations making a difference in the lives of children and families affected by autism. Guests enjoyed a lovely cocktail reception, exciting silent and live auctions, delicious bites and an inspiring awards presentation.

Fort Myers Mayor, Kevin Anderson and Krista Anderson. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Gannon Gifford, Madison Hamlett and Luke Hamlett. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Rich Verblaauw, Kim Verblaauw, Krystal Hunt-Branch and Aaron Hunt-Branch. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Ben Linscott and Natalee Linscott. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Cindy Santarelli and Cal Santarelli. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Michael Kukurelo, Lindsay Kukurelo and Jose Kukurelo. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Taylor Montreuil and Emily Montreuil. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Gabe Rizzi and Cathy Rizzi. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Travis Richardson, Nicole Pavone, Jaycee Barrett, Brooke Gaither, Austin Macon, Victor Caricabel and Gisselle Padilla. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY