By Kaitlyn Kay and Caroline Clarke
Have Dreams is a club that was established at Highland Park High School in 2009 by Alexi Norton whose cousin Sam is Autistic. Its objective is to introduce Autism awareness to the school, as well as to raise funds in support of the non-profit organization "Have Dreams" located in Park Ridge, Illinois. The organization faces the challenge of meeting the needs of an ever growing disability, while increasing public understanding and acceptance of Autism.
One in every 110 children born today will be on the Autism spectrum. This disorder is the third most common developmental disorder, more than Down Syndrome. Autism is a complex neurological disorder that typically appears during the first two years of life and affects the functioning of the brain and interferes with normal development of verbal and nonverbal communication, social interaction and sensory development.
Brooke Edwards, Fundraising Chair for the club, has brought an amazing oppurtunity to the club. The fundraiser for the club will be on Friday, April 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Great Hall at Park Cities Baptist Church. The very talented Hudson Moore along with his band will perform. Hudson and his band have made an impressive entrance to the music world, having played at the historic Billy Bob's, Austin City Limits Festival as well as opening for such notable artists as Pat Green, Kevin Fowler, Bob Schneider, Charlie Robison, Third Eye Blind, Casey Donahew, Alan Jackson and most recently The Band Perry. Moore and his band take the stage with excitment and perform with great enthusiasm, making each performance a memorable experience.
Tickets for the event will be sold the week of the concert (April 9-13) at HPHS during all lunches for $10 and will be sold on the night of the event at the door for $20.
The 2011-2012 officers and representatives are:
- Presidents: Tori Norton and Parker Fields;
- Vice Presidents: Rachel Reid and Charles Hubbard;
- Secretarys: Natalie McDole and Michael Thomas;
- Treasures: Meg Brawner and Hayden Fields;
- Publicity: Kaitlyn Kay and Caroline Clarke;
- Fundraising: Brooke Edwards, Kennedy Wolfsberger and Rankin Grote;
- Representatives: Paige Kelley, Macey McCarty, John Hubbard, Connor Hunt, Reagan Reid, Meyer williams and Gail Ewing.