Jenny McCarthy Raises Funds for Autism at
Talk About Curing Autism Gala 

Orange County—October 24 , 2007 – Jenny McCarthy, actress, comedian and model served as honorary Chair and spokesperson for a major Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) fundraiser on October 20 that netted $325,000 to benefit families affected by autism. Ante Up for Autism, was held at The Island Hotel, Newport Beach with a fun “old” Las Vegas theme including casino night and official poker tournament. McCarthy is the author of a just released book, Louder Than Words – A Mother’s Journey in Healing Autism which chronicles her experiences and healing philosophies as a parent of a child with autism.

McCarthy joined Lisa Ackerman, founder and executive director of TACA, serving as master of ceremonies. Ackerman also served as auctioneer for the live auction which included:

• Role on the CBS show “How I Met Your Mother”
• St. Regis Golf and Hotel Stay Package
• Vancouver Home and Big White Ski Resort Package
• Signed Lance Armstrong jersey

The total raised at the live and silent auction was $70,000 which include the signed Lance Armstrong Yellow Jersey. The jersey was worn by Armstrong at the podium when he accepted the award at Tour de France.  

Also auctioned off was an exclusive yacht vacation experience on the Princess K docked in St. Barts donated by Kimberly and Ted Jones Jr. 

This event, which helps to fund educational programs and services offered to families by TACA, included a reception and an open seating dinner set against a backdrop of lounge, gaming opportunities with live and silent auctions.

More than 24 major event sponsors helped make this event a success including Buchanan Street Partners, Trace|3, OC Business group and others.

In addition to McCarthy making herself available for conversation and photos, the highlight of the evening was the poker tournament featuring poker celebrities and special guests, Daniel Negreanu, Antonio Esfandiari, and Rafe Furst. Other celebrity guests include actors Clifton Collins Jr. as well as athletes Jim Everett, Brian Lopes, and Steve Lyons. Winner of the first annual poker tournament was Irvine resident, Stephen McKee.

To obtain more information about Talk About Curing Autism or to learn about available programs and services, visit www.tacanow.org or call  (949) 640-4401.

About TACA

Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) provides support, education and information, and resources to more than 3,000 people in California who are touched by autism. One in every 150 children in the United States has autism. Approximately 95 percent of TACA’s services are provided at no charge and include education and support meetings, parent mentoring, and the Autism Journey Guide. TACA helps to strengthen the autism community by connecting families with professional assistance and serves to bridge the gap between diagnosis and effective treatment.