ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT’S KELTIE KNIGHT TO HOST AUTISM SPEAKS “INTO THE BLUE” FASHION GALA ON SATURDA

Autism Speaks is thrilled to announce the Into The Blue Fashion Gala taking place on Saturday, October 21 at Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles. This annual Signature Gala brings together over 400 influencers from the Southern California area to raise vital funds and awareness for autism research, advocacy, and resources for every stage of life. Into The Blue will take a seat at the forefront of fashion entertainment as it partners with the iconic fashion brand ESCADA to present the runway looks.

The gala, hosted by Entertainment Tonight’s Keltie Knight, will feature a variety of one-of-a-kind surprises to delight and entertain throughout the evening. Upon arrival, celebrity and VIP guests will walk the signature blue carpet for top press and photographers. From 6:30pm - 8:30pm, guests will enjoy a cocktail reception featuring gourmet craft cocktails, surprise live performances, a silent auction, and the opportunity to mix and mingle. At 8:30pm, all guests will be seated in the grand ballroom and treated to a curated fashion show by ESCADA. Celebrity models including Alessandra Garcia and America’s Next Top Model winner Naima Mora will walk the runway with ANTM stars Hannah Kat Jones, Courtney Paige, and Delanie Dischert, among others.
"Escada is honored to grace the Into the Blue runway and participate in an event that supports such a worthy cause," stated Suzanne Humbert, President of the Americas at Escada.
Following the runway show, awards will be presented to corporate leaders and dedicated individuals for their commitment to enhancing lives today and accelerating a spectrum of solutions for tomorrow. This year’s Awareness Award will be presented to Sony Pictures Television and ABC’s, THE GOOD DOCTOR, starring Freddie Highmore who portrays a young surgeon with autism. The Influencer Award is being awarded to Cintas for being a leader in the employment space and setting an example to other corporations by making inclusiveness a priority.

Awards honoring individual leaders in the community for their dedication and support include The Stephen & Kristen Stills Family who will receive The Legacy Award for being true advocates of Autism Speaks’ mission. Dr. Connie Kasari will receive The Acceleration Award for making significant progress in the field of autism research and distinguishing herself as a leader in the field. Skip Keesal will receive The Advocate Award, which is given to an individual in the law industry who has dedicated himself to creating a more civil and just community through a strong commitment to community improvement and philanthropy.

"Autism Speaks recognizes the influence and impact that the entertainment industry has on advancing the awareness of autism," stated Angela Geiger, president and CEO of Autism Speaks. "We are grateful for the support and are thrilled to recognize community leaders who have made a committed effort to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism."

Gala sponsors include ABC, Sony Pictures Television, Walt Disney Studios, Keesal, Young & Logan, Forever 21, Fox Filmed Entertainment, Inner Images, and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

To learn more about the Autism Speaks Fashion Gala, please visit https://www.autismspeaks.org/IntotheBlue.

About Autism Speaks:
Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. We do this through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions. We empower people with autism and their families with resources, online tools and information covering the life span. To find resources, join a fundraising walk or make a donation, go to www.AutismSpeaks.org.

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For Sponsorship Opportunities:
Elizabeth Roland
elizabeth.roland@autismspeaks.org | 323 297-4730