SURFSIDE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — Saturday marked the sixth annual “Best of the Beach Balls Meatball Contest,” a popular event that not only fills stomachs, but raises money for an acclaimed local nonprofit.
Proceeds go to Champion Autism Network, which was launched in 2012 by Becky Large to raise awareness about the condition.
“Autism is around and here, they really make it a point to invite the community and see what that looks like,” said Maria Cankurtaran, who volunteers with the organization.
In January of 2016, Surfside Beach was declared the first autism-friendly travel destination with Myrtle Beach and Horry County following suit shortly after in 2018.
Surfside Beach Mayor Robert Krouse was one of the judges for the meatball contest and says the town is happy to support the cause.
“ It’s a great charity, it’s a difficult condition and we all just need to be aware and help out and if we can do something to help give the Champion Autism Network raise some funds we’re all in,” he said.