The Tribune

BAHA Mar, the new luxury resort destination in the Bahamas, will be bathed in blue light this evening in recognition of World Autism Day.

The $3.5 billion resort nearing completion is participating in “Light it up Blue”, a global initiative to raise awareness and funds for Autism research and treatment in which thousands of buildings and structures around the globe will be lit in blue. Baha Mar’s towers and portico will take their place alongside many of the iconic structures of the world, such as the Empire State building, the Eiffel Tower, CN Tower, The Sydney Opera, the Macau Tower, The Christ Redeemer statue in Rio, Bar Al Arab in Dubai and Niagara Falls, which are also expected to participate.

In the Bahamas, Baha Mar will be joining a local effort spearheaded by REACH, a parent-led organisation dedicated to helping the thousands of Bahamians with Autism. In addition to lighting up the structure, Baha Mar is encouraging all its staff members to dress in Baha Mar blue T-shirts. For each shirt worn, the BELIEVE Foundation at Baha Mar will make a donation to Seahorse Institute, a local school that serves children with Autism.

Baha Mar’s efforts have also reportedly inspired other Bahamians to get involved.

Paul Aranha and Michelle Cove, owners of Spectrum Lighting and Sound, are donating their time and services to design the lighting for the buildings.

Baha Mar and the BELIEVE Foundation have an ongoing commitment to supporting Bahamians with Autism and other Developmental Disabilities. Last year, the Believe Foundation helped to build a new facility for the students of Seahorse Institute after their previous one was lost in a fire. This year, Baha Mar will be launching a partnership with Best Buddies International to provide job training and employment opportunities for adults with Autism and other disabilities.

“Baha Mar and its staff are proud to support these important efforts, both here in the Bahamas and abroad. Awareness leads to action, and action leads to a better future for those families affected by autism and related disabilities,” said Paul Pusateri, Chief Operating Officer at Baha Mar.