We’d like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh for bringing together local businesses, law enforcement agencies, families, and community members every year for an unforgettable event to promote autism acceptance and support programs, like ours, in New Jersey.
Their support was evident during their 5th Annual Plunge for Autism, which raised $18,000 this year for Autism New Jersey’s programs and services. Hundreds of people flocked to the Belmar beachfront in April, when Autism Acceptance Month is recognized across the country. Brave swimmers jumped into the Atlantic Ocean and then met up for a post-plunge party at D’Jais on the boardwalk.
“We are so grateful to the Friendly Sons for their extraordinary commitment to the autism community,” said Autism New Jersey Executive Director, Dr. Suzanne Buchanan.
“Year after year, they bring together hundreds of people who share a common purpose: supporting individuals with autism and their families. Their generosity not only raises critical funds for organizations like ours, but also builds awareness, strengthens community connections, and reminds families across New Jersey that they are not alone.”
The plunge kicked off a series of 2026 Autism Acceptance events for Team Kathleen, a fundraising group named in honor of the daughter of Anthony and Jackie Kelly, longtime advocates for the autism community and fundraisers for autism programs. Kathleen, the Kellys’ daughter, was diagnosed with autism at age 3 and is now in her 20s.
The grand finale of the events was another massively successful Autism Acceptance Gift Auction Benefiting Autism New Jersey. The Kellys hosted the May 9 auction at Spring Lake Manor, which raised $20,000.
The Friendly Sons were among the auction’s top donors and supporters. Others included Wegman’s, Manasquan Elks and Patrick’s Grille. Members of the Autism New Jersey team joined the fun, including Executive Director Dr. Suzanne Buchanan, Development Director Kelley Widerman, and Law Enforcement Initiative Director Doreen Yanik.
Earlier events included a fundraiser with Patrick’s Grille in Neptune City. Patrick’s hosted a Dine to Donate event and sold autism puzzle pieces throughout April, Autism Acceptance Month, to decorate its walls and raise awareness. The Neptune restaurant also had a local elementary school drop off puzzle pieces that one of their classrooms decorated to show their support.
The Friendly Sons is one of the largest and most active Irish-American clubs in New Jersey, with more than 1,600 members. The organization has sponsored many charitable events, and we are grateful to be a recipient of their generosity.
Plunge Video Credits
- Dominic & Connor Orlando – Camera Operators
- Ian McGirr – Drone Operator
- Katie Kane – Editor
- Andrew Pflugbeil – Editor