The first-ever BuildStrong festival for autism was a huge success, thanks to the partnering companies and sponsors, amazing volunteers, and wonderful guests. The event benefitting local children with autism was the kick-off to a treasured partnership between Choate Construction and nonprofit, Autism Strong Foundation (ASF).

The October event made waves as Charlotte’s first-ever family festival to not only benefit autism, but to include a full hour prior to the event start when children with autism can attend with no sensory overload. BuildStrong far surpassed early expectations, selling more than 925 tickets and raising a total of $326,480 for the nonprofit.

“We are still reeling from the amazingness of our first-ever event,” shared ASF Executive Director Stephanie Neuman. “Because of your help, we will be able to put the money raised back into our local community to help families who need it most.”

“We teamed up with Autism Strong because they are Charlotte-based, locally funded, and support families in the Queen City,” said John Dudas, Division Manager at Choate Construction.

In addition to family-friendly activities, the event held a cornhole tournament on the amphitheater stage. Festival goers enjoyed music, lawn games, bounce houses, and got a close-up look at construction equipment. Tickets included mouth-watering BBQ plates from Noble Smoke and Suffolk Punch craft beer (21+).

“We felt like we were called upon to do something for the community. With BuildStrong, we have the opportunity to make a huge impact and help families here in Charlotte,” said Rudy Thoms, Founder of Autism Strong Foundation.

All funds raised are mindfully donated to the local community in the way that will make the greatest impact, connecting families and children to the resources they desperately need.

Thank you again to our partners and volunteers for the support and dedication that made this fantastic event possible. Stay tuned for more information on BuildStrong 2022! https://www.buildstrongclt.com/

About Choate Construction

As one of the largest general contractors in the Southeast, Choate Construction Company understands that success is driven by successful relationships and Reputation is Everything. Choate Construction excels in both ground-up and interior construction with six offices across the region, including Atlanta, Charleston, Charlotte, Raleigh, Savannah, and Nashville.  Please visit www.choateco.com for more information.

About Autism Strong Foundation

Inspired by their son, Landon, who was diagnosed with autism just shy of two years old, local parents, Becky and Rudy Thoms decided to take their motivation one step further. In August 2016, they formed the Autism Strong Foundation as a charitable organization. Founded on faith and led by inclusion, their mission is to provide the strongest support, community and hope for those touched by autism. Autism Strong Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity. Tax ID #81-3459371. Please visit www.autismstrong.org for more information.