It’s hard to determine which was sweeter at the Autism Auction and Art Walk last weekend — the dessert bar, compliments of K.T. Cakes, or the community support.

Local moms Carrie Yang and Tara Janicki hosted the first annual Autism Auction and Art Walk on Sunday, Feb. 26. The two masterminds organized the event in just three months.

Both moms have children who have been diagnosed with autism. Noticing the lack of funding in their kids’ classrooms, and its dramatic impact, the two women took action to raise money for their kids’ special needs classrooms.

The event brought in nearly $7,000, which will be split evenly between Yang and Janicki. Yang’s half will go toward Mrs. Stewart’s special education preschool class at Adelaide Elementary School; Janicki’s portion will go toward the Orting Special Needs Department and Children’s Therapy Center.

For Sunday’s event, Twin Lakes Golf and Country Club donated the space for the women to host what they envisioned as “a small luncheon,” Yang said.

More than 200 attendees showed up to support these moms and all families with special needs children.

“I’m humbled and really grateful people took time out of their weekend to understand why we’re here, what we’re doing and what we’re trying to accomplish — and supporting all these kids,” Janicki said.

Families and community members were able to meet first responders from the Federal Way Police Department and South King Fire and Rescue, elected officials, Disney princesses, therapy dogs, and the Sea Gals cheerleaders, along with members of Federal Way National Little League and the Challenger division, and The Friends Project.

“I hope this event inspires other parents to get involved, on whatever level they can do,” Yang said. “… The teachers need the help. Support your educators and let them know ‘Hey, I’m here for you.’”

Disney princesses Belle and Ariel graced the Autism Auction and Art Walk event on Sunday, Feb. 24. Olivia Sullivan/staff photo

Carrie Yang, left, and Tara Janicki are two locals moms and masterminds behind the first annual Autism Auction and Art Walk event. Olivia Sullivan/staff photo

Therapy dogs roamed the event with their owners, welcoming many hugs, pets and kisses from all ages. Olivia Sullivan/staff photo

Brightly colored abstract art works created by kids with autism were available for name-your-price sale. Photo courtesy of Bruce Honda

Two of the Sea Gals also attended the event to show support, meeting fans and signing posters. The art piece in front was auctioned off for more than $200. Photo courtesy of Bruce Honda

Three-year-old Alex Yang was diagnosed with severe non-verbal autism and mom Carrie Yang, right, decided to take action by helping fund his special needs classroom. Olivia Sullivan/staff photo

Tara Janicki, owner of K.T. Cakes, made all of the treats for the dessert bar including cake pops, cakes, chocolate covered Oreos, and cupcakes. Olivia Sullivan/staff photo