HomeFlorence CountyFlorence nonprofit prepares for third annual Under The Palms fundraiser supporting autism...

Florence nonprofit prepares for third annual Under The Palms fundraiser supporting autism services

Florence, South Carolina – The Pee Dee will once again be filled with the joy and purpose of spring as The Palmetto Partnership of All 4 Autism gets ready to conduct its third annual Under The Palms event on May 7, 2026.

The event is meant to raise important money for programs that help people with disabilities and the families who care for them. This is part of a ten-year commitment to service in the area.

This year is important for the organizers since it marks 10 years since the group started supporting families in the area in 2016. Since then, more than 600 families in the Pee Dee have gotten help through free services, advocacy, and support that focuses on the community.

Leadership hopes that this milestone will both honor what has already been done and give them greater energy to reach even more underserved residents in the future.

Read also: Florence to host no-cost homebuyer education event at The SHEREC in March

The night will start with a cocktail party with a signature drink, an open bar, and music by David Whatley from Black Tie DJ Services. Before the formal event starts, guests will be able to choose from a variety of heavy hors d’oeuvres and pasta stations. The program will include a live auction and a film presentation about the Padgett family and their son Jake. There will also be cocktails and dessert.

The money donated at Under The Palms will go directly to the Palmetto Partnership initiative, which expands services for people with a wide spectrum of impairments and strengthens partnerships with community organizations.

Monthly support group activities, training opportunities, advocacy services, and events that connect families with local resources are all ongoing initiatives that are free for those in need.

“This year’s event is incredibly special to us, because we are celebrating 10 years of serving local families in need. I remember taking my very first phone call in March of 2016. Since then, we have provided services and support to over 600 families throughout the Pee Dee. Our hope is that we will continue to advocate for the underserved and provide a place where you feel that you belong,” said Jessica Brown, Executive Director.

The dinner will start at 6 p.m. at the Florence Country Club, and guests are asked to dress like they would at a resort. Organizers continue to encourage community members to become involved, stressing that everyone working together is very important for improving care, connection, and opportunities for families in the Pee Dee.

Click here to purchase tickets.

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Caroline Williams
Caroline Williams
Publisher Caroline Williams has more than 15 years of experience in journalism and media leadership across the Southeast. She has led Florence News Journal since its transition to a digital-first platform, guiding its growth as an independent voice for Florence County. Before joining the organization, she held editorial and management roles at regional publications and digital news ventures, with a focus on community engagement and sustainable local journalism models. With a college degree in journalism, Caroline is passionate about the role of local news in fostering informed, connected communities.

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