2021 Wrap-Up & Annual Appeal
2021 has been an incredibly exciting year for the Ken Anderson Alliance! From opening a new coffee shop to fun, successful fundraisers, we have accomplished some big goals. We are humbled by the continued generosity of our supporters. Please enjoy this recap of our year as we look forward to continuing our mission in the new year.
Spring Recap
Our first fundraiser of the year was rockin’ and rollin’. Autism Rocks 12 presented by the Heidt Family Foundation was a record success, grossing over $44,000. With a year complicated by COVID, our team was challenged to come together and brainstorm how to hold the event so everyone could participate in a way that was comfortable for them. We put together the first hybrid version with help from our sponsors. The main event, held February 28, included a live gathering at the Blue Note in Harrison, 16 mini gatherings at local bars, and a virtual viewing option.
Also in the spring, we began the intake process for our adult day programs. Three programming tracks emerged from the hard work of Emily King and her team: Melodic Connections, Arts & Exploration, and Community Engagement. The programs officially began in July and have continued to be in high demand.
Summer Recap
To kick off the summer, KAA partnered with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati to host the 4th annual Dave Lapham and Ken Anderson Charitable Golf Outing on June 21. We were honored to have Amy Bockerstette, collegiate golfer and Down Syndrome advocate, in Cincinnati for the event.
On July 25, we held the 8th Annual Ridin’ & Rockin’ for Autism with David Kahle and his son, Parker. Motorcycle riders hit the road at Queen City Harley-Davidson in support of autism awareness benefitting the Ken Anderson Alliance.
Perhaps the highlight of our year was the opening of our facilities in Silverton. In the middle of July, we opened our brand new office and Just Brew Coffee House! The new office provides space for our adult day programs, Melodic Connections performances, administrative areas, and our newest WORK opportunity. Please be sure to come visit if you haven’t already.
Fall Recap
As the leaves turned color and the air turned cooler, we held our fall fundraiser. The Legends Golf Event and Dinner was held on October 3 and 4. A total of $88,000 in funds were raised after costs. The Legends Dinner was held at the Paul Brown Stadium West Club Lounge and featured special guests Ken Anderson, Marty Brenneman, Ron Oester, Doug Flynn, Anthony Muñoz, Jim Breech, and Dave Lapham. We were grateful for the 225 guests who attended the event. The following day, 29 foursomes, plus Kenny, played in the The Legends Golf Outing.
Around the same time, we cheered as Ken Anderson was inducted into the inaugural Ring of Honor at Paul Brown Stadium. We are grateful to the many season ticket holders who voted for him. Without Ken’s support, none of our work would be possible.
Help Us Prepare for 2022
There are two more weeks left to give in our annual appeal. The IRS recently announced expanded tax benefits to help individuals and businesses give to charity during 2021, including deductions up to $600 available for cash donations by non-itemizers. Please consider donating, and thank you for all your support.