“People with autism have a lot to offer society and society needs to condone the differences in their behaviors instead of labelling them less," DeGroat said.

This cause is special to DeGroat, who was diagnosed with autism at age four.

“I was labeled often in schools in my K-12 generation which led me to be more motivated to go out and become my own leader in this world and inspire others to be themselves instead of letting other people define them,” DeGroat said.

His foundation focuses on achieving political, social and economic equality for those with autism. Their biggest accomplishment has been their work with law enforcement and Secretary of State. Because of the foundation's advocacy, people with autism can now choose a license plate with vehicle registration that allows their diagnoses to be disclosed to allow for better interactions with police. 

This event and the foundation has the full support of Michigan State University President Samuel L. Stanley.

“Anything MSU can do to help is very important,” Stanley said. He wished DeGroat success for his event and his plans going forward. 

In the future, the foundation will continue to focus on its core pillars: Advocacy, Economic Opportunity, Education and Humanitarianism. In order to fund these future projects, the foundation hopes to raise money at events such as the occasion taking place on Oct. 19.

This event takes place from 6-8 p.m. on Oct. 19, and general and VIP admission tickets are currently available for purchase. Proceeds from this event will go towards advancing the foundation's goal of advancing equality for people with autism.