Celebrities Against Autism To Dazzle Detroit Auto Show Charity with 1.75 Million Dollar Dress

(SANEPR.com) January 12, 2009 -- Cars won’t be the only things mesmerizing attendees at this year’s North American International Auto Show Charity Preview in Detroit. Celebrities Against Autism President Val McFarland will be attending the black tie event wearing a gown adorned with 1.75 million dollars worth of diamonds, representing the 1.75 million Americans currently affected by Autism. Created by Dearborn fashion designer Zaynini, the gown includes diamonds from several local Metro Detroit jewelers. Karen Newman, the voice of the Detroit Red Wings, and Celebrities Against Autism’s official spokesperson, will also be on hand, along with Autism therapy and service dogs, trained and provided by Golden Ticket Puppies.

Partnering with Jenny McCarthy and Jim Carrey’s Generation Rescue Organization, Celebrities Against Autism will also be handing out puzzle pieces at the NAIAS Charity Preview to promote the “World’s Largest Puzzle” that will be comprised of over 1 million puzzle pieces and built later this year. Puzzle pieces can be purchased for $1 each online at either celebritiesagainstautism.org or generationrescue.org. Funds raised will provide support to families affected by Autism and will fund research and treatment options.

Based in Metro Detroit, Celebrities Against Autism was founded by Val McFarland, whose son Callahan is autistic. Autism is a complex neurological disorder impacting development in social and communication skills.

The NAIAS Charity Preview is Friday, January 16, 2009 at Cobo Center in Detroit, Michigan.
-end-
Editor's note: Val McFarland is available for interviews. JPEG photos of the dress are also available.
Relevant web sites:
Celebritiesagainstautism.org
Generationrescue.org
Goldenticketpuppies.com
myspace.com/ontherocksdetroit