Today, 1 in 68 U.S. children are diagnosed with autism. That statistic is up from 1 in 500 in 1998 and up 30% from 1 in 88 in 2012.
Doug Flutie is doing his best to combat this trend and he’s leading the way from personal experience.
The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, Inc., was established in 1998 by the 1984 Heisman Trophy winner and and his wife Laurie in response to the challenges of raising their son, Doug, Jr., on the autism specturm.
Since its inception, the Flutie Foundation has raised millions of dollars for autism through corporate and individual donations, fundraisers, endorsement promotions featuring Doug and Doug Jr. as well as sales of Flutie Flakes and other related items.
In 2014, the Flutie Foundation distributed over $600,000 to many outstanding non-profit partners and families in need.
Much of the money is raised through various charitable events put on throughout they year. This Monday, June 22, the Foundation’s 16th annual golf classic will be held at Hopkinton Country Club in Hopkinton, Mass. The event has raised more than $4 million over the years.
“We are excited to bring together sponsors and friends for another great day on the links to raise awareness and funds to help other families living with autism,” said Flutie of the upcoming event.
The Heisman Trophy Trust is a proud donor of the Flutie Foundation. If you want to join us and get involved in the fight against autism, visit flutiefoundation.orgfor more information.