CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Novant Health Foundation philanthropic partners Raymond and Erin Evernham committed $500,000 to Novant Health’s developmental and behavioral pediatrics program to expand programs and resources that can lead to an earlier autism spectrum disorder diagnosis for Charlotte area children.
“As parents, Erin and I know how scary it is when your child is facing a medical crisis,” said Ray Evernham. “Our care team provided us hope on our journey and we want to make sure every family has access to the same care we received.”
Ray has previously made transformational investments to Novant Health’s pediatric behavioral health services. Through their foundation, Evernham Family Racing for a Reason, the Evernhams have also supported programs at the Novant Health Huntersville Medical Center (NHHMC), including the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation Children’s Emergency Services and the Team Respite Room. Their philanthropic donations have made these programs and initiatives possible for the children in the Charlotte community.
“Novant Health is grateful for the continued support of the Evernhams,” said Ann Caulkins, senior vice president of Novant Health and president of Novant Health Foundation. “They have been dedicated philanthropic partners and their work has made a positive impact on our community. This gift will provide continued growth in Novant Health’s developmental and behavioral health services.”
Novant Health is dedicated to better and increased support for our families in developmental and behavioral health services. According to the CDC, 1 in 36 children is identified with autism spectrum disorder and research shows that early intervention and treatment can help improve social and communication skills, significantly improving the child’s later development and optimizing outcomes. The Evernhams’ generosity today enables lives to be changed forever.