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American Idol Performer Sings at Autism Benefit Concert
Friday, 10 April 2009

Autism nonprofit organization, The Friendship Network for Children, Inc., announces a benefit concert with guest performer 2006 American Idol contestant Ayla Brown. The concert features Alexis Ohanian, experienced vocalist and Massachusetts native, and other New England musicians. Children from The Friendship Network will also perform.

The concert is on May 2, 2009 from 7:00pm-9:00pm at the Mill Pond School in Westborough, Massachusetts. It is made possible with the support of the Westborough Public School Special Education Parent Advisory Council. Tickets cost $15.00 and can be purchased online at The Friendship Network for Children\'s website.

A 50/50 raffle and silent auction will add to the fun. There will be meet and greet time with Ayla Brown. All proceeds from the concert will benefit socialization programs.

"We want to raise awareness of the emotional world of children with autism," says Nancy Swanberg, Founder and Executive Director of The Friendship Network. Swanberg states, "Children with autism want to make friends, and they just don\'t know how-- we can help."

Alexis Ohanian, music therapist at The Friendship Network, explains the results of her work. "I have seen children talk for the first time, have successful play dates for the first time, and experience the joys of friendship for the first time in their lives."

For additional information on The Friendship Network for Children, to buy concert tickets, or make a donation, visit http://www.networkforchildren.org

About The Friendship Network for Children, Inc:

An award-winning nonprofit organization in Central Massachusetts serving children with autism, families, and professionals. Their motto, "Friendship is possible!\'

Contact

Nancy Swanberg, LMHC, Executive Director

The Friendship Network for Children, Inc

508.393.0030

Former American Idol contestant to sing at Mill Pond
By John Fenuccio/News Staff WRiter
Fri May 01, 2009, 06:09 PM EDT

WESTBOROUGH - Wrentham\'s Ayla Brown, who was a contestant on American Idol, will perform for a charity concert at Mill Pond Elementary School Saturday night.

Westborough\'s Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) is hosting the 2009 Friendship Network Autism charity concert. Tickets are $15.

Brown was a contestant during the 2006 season finishing 23rd before being eliminated from the show on March 9.