ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Arms Around ASD, a volunteer-run nonprofit that provides a huge array of services and programs for autistic people of all ages, will host its annual Hop to the Movies fundraiser and film screening this weekend. Proceeds from the outdoor family movie night will go to support Arms Around ASD programming.
This year, Hop to the Movies will be held from 6:30-9:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 4 at Land of the Sky United Church of Christ, 15 Overbrook Place, with a screening of the 1974 Mel Brooks comedy “Young Frankenstein.”
“My name. It’s pronounced Frahnkensteen!”
The family-friendly flick will be shown on a screen outdoors. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged for maximum comfort.
The suggested ticket price is $25 per family or $10 per individual. Tickets may be purchased at the door, at the Arms Around ASD location in the Asheville Mall, or online at www.armsaroundasd.org/updates/hop-to-the-movies-2025.
“All proceeds support Arms Around ASD, a volunteer-run nonprofit providing services for autistic people regardless of age, ability or income, along with their families, caregivers and professionals who work with them,” said Michele Louzon, AAA founder and executive director, in a press release. “The financial support generously provided by the Asheville community ensures we can continue our mission and provide one giant hug to families.”
In addition to the film, the fundraiser will feature a bag raffle. Raffle tickets start at $1, with discounts for more tickets purchased.
“$1 million gets you all the tickets,” joked Rich Johnston, president of the AAA board.
Food and drinks will be available for purchase at the event, including alternative options for restrictive diets.
“We’re having nachos, pizza, gluten free pizza, burgers, veg burgers, corn dogs, veg corn dogs,” said Louzon. “Vanilla Coke floats, hot chocolate. Sodas and beer from Asheville Brewing. Wine from Target, because we’re high class like that.”
AAA currently offers over 40 in-person and virtual services focused on self-care and executive functioning skills for autistic people. For more information, visit www.armsaroundasd.org/all-services.
