The Executive Networking Alliance’s fourth annual fundraising banquet and auction to benefit local children with autism was held at Sea Oaks Golf Club on Thursday, May 3. A festive atmosphere set the scene for business owners and professionals to mingle, bid and share information.

More children are diagnosed each year with autism (“1 in 91”) than cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined. The two charities benefiting from the event proceeds were Faces and Autism New Jersey, for their efforts to serve families living with autism.

One of the event’s main take-home messages: “Early detection is the key to living a life of independence and meaning while living with autism. … The circle of autism becomes larger all the time.” —V.L.

(Photo by: Jack Reynolds)

(Photo by: Jack Reynolds)

Jacob Seeger entertains the crowd. (Photo by: Jack Reynolds)

Jacob Seeger entertains the crowd. (Photo by: Jack Reynolds)

Live Auction (Photo by: Jack Reynolds)

(Photo by: Jack Reynolds)

(Photo by: Jack Reynolds)

(Photo by: Jack Reynolds)

(Photo by: Jack Reynolds)

(Photo by: Jack Reynolds)