Tropical Nights 2025: A Milestone Evening Raising Over $1 Million for Autism Support

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On April 5, 2025, the 21st Annual Tropical Nights Gala illuminated the InterContinental Miami with an evening of celebration and generosity, surpassing its ambitious $1 million fundraising goal. Hosted by the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University, the event brought together over 600 guests and nearly 100 sponsors to support CARD's mission of providing lifelong services to individuals with autism and related disabilities across South Florida.

The gala's success is attributed to the dedicated efforts of co-chairs Cristian and Gianni LaCapra, whose personal journey with CARD began in 2018 following their son Nico's autism diagnosis. Their leadership, combined with an unprecedented live auction and the tireless work of the event's supporters, played a pivotal role in achieving this milestone.

This year's honoree, Lileana de Moya, was recognized for her decades-long commitment to the neurodiverse community, including founding the de Moya Foundation, which focuses on creating employment opportunities for adults who are neurodivergent and have related disabilities.

Funds raised from Tropical Nights directly benefit CARD's comprehensive range of free services, which support more than 18,000 families across Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties. These services include early intervention programs, educational support, vocational training, and community outreach initiatives.

The success of Tropical Nights 2025 underscores the community's dedication to supporting individuals with autism and related disabilities, ensuring they receive the specialized support and vital services they deserve.