Saccomaniacs Agriculture for Autism Raises $2,550.00 for the CVCDA TAP Program

On December 20, 2022, at 1 pm, Steve Saccomano, Founder, Agriculture for Autism, of Chilliwack BC and Caroline Neumann, Comox Valley Auction Item Chair, presented a cheque for $2,550.00 to our Comox Valley Child Development Association (CVCDA) Autism Program (TAP). Funds were raised from Saccomaniacs Agriculture for Autism Live Auction 2022.

The CVCDA hosted the presentation in the Comox Valley Autism Centre, with a small guest list of CVCDA Board members, staff and special guests such as local Ag4Autism Auction sponsors and event supporters. Additionally, the Courtenay Mayor and a members of the City of Courtenay Council were present.

Comox Valley businesses have been long time supporters of the Saccomaniacs Agriculture for Autism fundraising golf tournament, presented by RBC, raising funds for the registered Canadian Charity, Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN).

Since 2015, Shelter Point Distillery, Natural Pastures Cheese Co, 40 Knots Winery, and Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community have participated in and helped raise over $700,000 NET for Pacific Autism Family Network.

Many residents of Comox Valley volunteer at the annual golf tournament, traveling to the mainland to add much needed labour for this amazing golf event, attended by over 300 golfers and sponsors. Layne Craig and Brenda Hetman-Craig, Jacob Wiebe, Anne Carroll, Sandra and Andy Petersen have all made the trip to the mainland to volunteer. Caroline and Rob Neumann have been part of the Saccomaniacs Ag4Autism volunteer team since 2008.

Steve Saccomano asked Layne Craig why 40 Knots Winery chose this event to travel to and support. Layne Craig responded: “Besides being the most fun event, with the most personable and supportive volunteers, and wonderful attendees? We help make a difference to children and families living on the autism spectrum. A great event, a great cause. Get involved.”

This year, 2022, Agriculture for Autism chose to give back to the Comox Valley. Specifically, to The Autism Program (TAP) through the Comox Valley Child Development Association (CVCDA).

Caroline Neumann stepped up as the auction chair, with a goal of creating the perfect four seasons getaway to the beautiful Comox Valley. The promise to auction donors: 50% of the auction funds raised from this package will be donated to CVCDA, the other 50% to PAFN.

“The local Comox Valley businesses were so kind and generous. Everyone I spoke to was on board for the CVCDA. It was great to see the support.” Caroline Neumann

The four seasons getaway was a highly bid on auction item. Donations from 40 Knots Winery, Ambassador Transportation and Tours, Big Foot Donuts, Browns Social House, Cameron Contracting Ltd., Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community, Deluca Veale – Realstream, Devon Transport Ltd – Budget Car Rental, Mount Washington Alpine Resort, Natural Pastures Cheese Co. Ltd, Nomadic Sauna, Old House Hotel and Spa, Pacific Coastal Air, Shelter Point Distillery and Thrifty Foods Crown Isle sold for $4600.00.

Anyssa Jane, Hotel Manager, Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community, is another long-time volunteer with Ag4Autism, and made this comment. “Volunteering with Ag4Autism is an uplift to my spirit. So many people giving of time, energy, financial support, year after year. We have become family. Crown Isle Resort is a proud sponsor of Saccomaniacs Agriculture for Autism.”

Caroline Neumann has started sourcing auction donations for 2023. Pacific Coastal Airlines, 40 Knots Winery, and Crown Isle Resort have already committed to participate once again.

As for who will be enjoying the 2022 Comox Valley 4 Seasons Getaway auction item? Ag4Autism’s very own Steve Saccomano was the high bidder.