Partner Partner Content Michigan Shines for Autism Gala raises funds, spreads the word, and promises a fun-filled evening

On April 18, 2026, the Michigan Shines for Autism Gala will bring together business and community leaders, legislators, advocates, and members of Michigan’s autism community to raise awareness and critical funds for the Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM). 

“We need to ensure that the organization raises as much money as possible to make sure we’re serving our community. This year, it’s even more important with the unexpected loss of $2 million from the state of Michigan,” says Marc Berke, AAoM chief development officer. “The funds raised support the full mission of the organization –– every single part of the organization –– and fully fund our mission to help serve Michigan families. We have a goal of $860,000 for this year’s event.”

A star-studded event

Eva Erickson, the first openly autistic contestant on Survivor, will be the black-tie charity Gala’s keynote speaker. The renowned reality TV series revolves around a new group of castaways each season as they compete against each other in a series of challenges. Erickson placed as runner up in Survivor’s 48th season.

“We’re really excited that we have Eva Erickson. She made it all the way to the finals. She’s going to speak about her journey and being a self advocate,” Berke says. “It’s really important to have lived life experience talked about at our functions.”

The gala’s honorary chairs are Steve Hamp and Sheila Ford Hamp, principal owner and chair of the Detroit Lions. The event’s major sponsors include the DTE Foundation, Huntington Bank, and Barton Malow.

“Together with our exceptional keynote speaker, the Hamps have really elevated awareness and support of the gala, “says Berke.

He notes that the support of individuals and smaller sponsorships are equally important. These demonstrate community support for AAoM’s mission and further help AAoM provide resources to families all across Michigan. 

“From someone purchasing a ticket to the Gala to making a $25 donation bidding on a silent auction item, it shows that you’re supporting the work that we’re doing, and that you support Michigan’s autism community,” Berke says.

“Where compassion takes root”

The theme for this year’s AAoM Gala is “Where compassion takes root.” According to AAoM board of directors member Mark Miller, the theme “gets at the core” of AAoM’s work. 

“Our team does a tremendous amount to increase awareness, acceptance, promote advocacy, and offer support services to the thousands of families across the state that are impacted by autism,” he says. “When I think about that entire body of work, ultimately, all of that is about showing compassion to people around us, to others in our community, to those that need it most.” 

Miller is also the AAoM board treasurer, fund development committee chair, and the parent of an autistic child.

“The work that the organization does, and this event specifically, is a great reminder of the power that we have as a community, what it means to be a part of a community, and just how much we can accomplish when we come together that way,” he says.

A fantastic night out

Miller sees the Gala as an opportunity to educate people about what’s been going on in the autism space across Michigan –– victories, opportunities, and challenges –– while recalibrating a broader support network. This will be his family’s seventh Gala. 

“Every year, without fail, is always a fantastic night out,” Miller says. “We always leave with a smile on our face and full hearts having just spent an evening with people who care very deeply about the cause.”

AAoM board of directors chair Colette Rizik agrees. She and her family have attended a dozen galas. Rizik is the parent of an autistic adult child.

“It’s a great night. It’s fun. It’s meaningful. I’ve never come home from one of the galas not feeling like I’ve learned more about what it means to be a part of this community,” she says. “If you spoke to people who had been there, who’ve never been there before, they would say, ‘Wow, I didn’t realize. I just didn’t know.’ And that’s the beauty of this event. People walk away and have a better understanding of why this need exists and what AAoM is doing to help address it.”

Official voice of the Detroit Lions, legendary sports broadcaster, and FOX 2 Detroit sports anchor Dan Miller will emcee the event. 

“AAoM’s team works really hard to bring in impactful speakers that tell their stories –– stories that matter and deserve to be heard,” Rizik says. “As board members, we try to leverage our contacts. We want a variety of stakeholders in the room –– legislators, foundations, policymakers –– advocates all in the room together to hear what we’re presenting and to know what we do.”

The Michigan Shines for Autism Gala kicks off at 6 p.m. with a cocktail hour followed by a gourmet three-course meal. Eva Erickson’s keynote, other speakers, and a live auction will commence at 8 p.m. At 9 p.m., Your Generation in Concert will perform five decades of pop, rock, and dance hits while guests enjoy dancing and late night snacks. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at the event website.

“You have 700 people in this room that are leaving more aware of the challenges and more understanding of autism,” Rizik concludes. “If those 700 people take that back to their communities, it allows more understanding.” 

Photos courtesy Autism Alliance of Michigan

Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) was founded with the vision that people with autism will lead lives that meet their greatest potential. AAoM leads efforts to raise expectations and expand opportunities for people touched by autism across the lifespan.