The Tourette Association of America (TAA) 50th Anniversary Supporting Abilities Gala


“Kids shouldn’t have to go through this or any unkind treatment and it’s now my duty to help educate the next generation so there can be more compassion, more understanding and more guidance for the most important role models kids with TS will have,” says Smith.

The Tourette Association of America (TAA) celebrates its 50th Anniversary with its Supporting Abilities Gala on Thursday, November 10, 2022 at 6 p.m., bringing awareness to a widely misunderstood condition: Tourette Syndrome (TS) and Tic Disorders. The gala will be held at the Tribeca Rooftop located at 2 Desbrosses Street in New York City beginning with a stunning cocktail reception followed by an unforgettable dinner & evening program. Supporters will have a blast and get the opportunity to surround themselves with other like-minded people in the TS and Tic Disorders community. The TAA encourages everyone to celebrate their milestone by purchasing a ticket, sponsorship, making a donation, or supporting our silent auction at Tourette.org.

When asked about the Gala, TAA CEO Amanda Talty, shared, “We are so proud to be celebrating 50 years of service to the Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders community. Our Supporting Abilities Gala represents a chance to celebrate some of our heroes, show gratitude to our dedicated TAA volunteers, and most importantly illuminate the critical needs of the TS and Tic Disorders community.” She continued, “1 in 50 school-aged children are affected by this misunderstood condition and no two people experience TS and tics in the same way. As such, we are committed to full representation in our growing, multifaceted, diverse community which allows the Tourette Association of America to continue to serve as the most reliable TS and Tic Disorders resource in the world.”

Award-winning Lead National News Correspondent David Begnaud from “CBS Mornings”, best known for his coverage of Hurricane Maria when it hit Puerto Rico in October 2017, will be the emcee for the evening. Special guests and honorees include David Begnaud; Former Board Chair of the TAA, Rovena Schirling; and newly appointed TAA Global Ambassador Aidy Smith, Co-Founder, Producer and Presenter of the award-winning ‘The Three Drinkers’ travel series on Amazon Prime.

“Kids shouldn’t have to go through this or any unkind treatment and it’s now my duty to help educate the next generation so there can be more compassion, more understanding and more guidance for the most important role models kids with TS will have,” says Smith. Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder that currently affects 1:50 school-aged children, half of which remain undiagnosed and 83% also diagnosed with at least one additional co-occuring mental health condition, including ADHD, OCD, anxiety, learning disabilities, depression, and behavioral problems. The TAA has made a steadfast commitment to honor the unique stories and experiences of each individual in the TS and Tic Disorder community.

The TAA is the only national non-profit organization serving the community, and working to raise awareness, advance research, and provide ongoing support to patients and families impacted by Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders. To this end, the TAA directs a network of 31 Chapters, 83 support groups, and recognizes 18 Centers of Excellence across the country. The TAA is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. All proceeds from the Gala support the Tourette Association of America and its mission to bring world-wide attention to this misunderstood condition by supporting efforts for those impacted by Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders. For more information visit: https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/759535923/59e757091a, to view sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets visit tourette.org/gala.

Interview Inquires & Press Credential Requests: Interview inquires & Press Credentials to cover the TAA 50th Anniversary Gala are due Friday, November 4, 2022 at 12noon EST. For press inquiries and credential request questions, please contact Geneice Sergant at gsergeant@keeperofthebrand.com.

About the Tourette Association of America: Founded in 1972, the TAA has been dedicated to making life better for all individuals affected by Tourette Syndrome, Tic Disorders, and associated conditions for 50 years. The premier nationwide organization serving this community, the Association works to raise awareness, advance research, and provide ongoing support. The TAA directs a network of Chapters and support groups across the country and recognizes 20 Centers of Excellence. For more information on Tourette Syndrome, Tic Disorders, and associated conditions, call 1-888-4-TOURET and visit us at tourette.org, and on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

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