Carmela Catanzaro wanted to give back to the community so she researched various charities and organizations. She found herself drawn to autism because the number of children being diagnosed is rising and research remains under funded. So she created an organization called This Beautiful Mind, which will be holding its first fundraiser on May 27, 2012 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Sheraton Hotel Laval.

The event includes a brunch, guest speakers including biomedical engineer, Sean Zia, who will talk about living with Asperger’s Syndrome. There will be music, raffles and a silent auction. There will also be activities for children such as face painting and a cotton-candy making machine.

Proceeds will go to Autism Canada, a national organization providing services and support to families. Tickets cost $75 for adults. $30 for children ages 3 to 10 and free for children under age 3.

For more information and to purchase tickets, call (514) 998-0858 or email thisbeautifulmind@hotmail.ca.