Our signature fundraising events help raise money for NECC’s Annual Fund and bring our mission into the community.
Past and Current Sponsors
NECC Art Show
The NECC Art Show is a celebration of art and inspiration. Original artwork donated by NECC students and staff, as well as generous local artists, are auctioned off to raise money for NECC’s Annual Fund.
The 7th Annual Art Show, which was held on Thursday, April 10, at the Southborough Community House, raised more than $10,000.
Join us on April 16, 2026 at the Warren Conference Center in Ashland for this year’s event! Website coming soon…
Last year's Art Show Website
NECC 5K Walk/Run for Autism
Held annually since 2007, the NECC 5K Walk/Run for Autism brings together students, staff, families, and community members to support autism education and research. Starting at the Neary Elementary School in Southborough, MA, participants complete a 5K route through the surrounding neighborhoods—while raising critical funds and awareness for NECC. After crossing the finish line, participants gather for a cookout and enjoy the expo area and playground to celebrate the impact of their efforts. To date, the event has raised over $2.6 million, thanks to the incredible support of runners, walkers, donors, and sponsors.
To see the fun from the 2025 NECC 5K, watch the recap video here.
We hope you’ll join us for the 20th annual NECC 5K Walk/Run for Autism on May 9, 2026 – registration is now open!
Register today!
Carlos Placido Dunkin’ Golf Classic
The Carlos Placido Dunkin’ Golf Classic for Autism was established in 1997 by Dunkin’ franchisees Carlos Placido and Neal Faulkner, a longstanding member of the NECC Board of Directors. Funds raised from the event support NECC’s Annual Fund.
The 27th Annual Carlos Placido Dunkin’ Golf Classic took place on Monday, June 2, 2025, at the Franklin Country Club in Franklin, MA. It was a festive day of golf and giving, raising over $115,000.
The 28th Annual Carlos Placido Dunkin’ Golf Classic will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026. To learn more about the event or sponsoring a foursome contact Karen McAdams (event information) or Marianne Gibson (sponsor a foursome) below.
Request Info Register
The NECC Gala
NECC’s 50th Anniversary Gala – All that Glitters – was a memorable night of inspiration and philanthropy, as well as a record-breaking evening, raising $1.5 million to advance the NECC mission. We are grateful for the generosity of our dedicated community!
The annual fundraising event began as the “Night of Music” in 2001 and has since transformed into a night that features fabulous food, silent and live auctions, and a lockbox raffle, all benefitting NECC. Since its creation, attendees and sponsors have raised over $13 million.
Watch the highlight video from the 50th Anniversary NECC Gala “All That Glitters”!
Watch video