Community leaders from South and Central New Jersey will receive awards at an upcoming gala for their outstanding support of people with autism, brain injuries and related disabilities. 

Haddonfield, N.J.-based Bancroft will honor Barbara and Sheldon Berkman of Hopewell Township, as well as TD Bank and TD executive Rob Curley, at the organization’s annual Butterfly Ball.

Scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 9, at The Merion in Cinnaminson, the Butterfly Ball raises awareness and resources for Bancroft, a leading nonprofit service-provider for people with autism, acquired brain injuries and other intellectual or developmental disabilities.

“The Berkmans, Rob Curley and TD Bank have all been wonderful supporters for many years,” said Bancroft President and CEO Toni Pergolin. “They have helped us help thousands of children and adults live better lives.”

The Berkmans will receive the prestigious Margaret Bancroft Award, named for the organization’s founder, while Rob Curley will receive Bancroft’s Corporate and Community Leadership Award on behalf of TD Bank. Curley is the bank’s South Jersey Market President and has played an instrumental role in TD’s support of Bancroft.

The event will also feature a guest emcee – sportscaster Michael Barkann of Comcast Sports Network – along with a cocktail reception, gourmet dinner and dancing to live music.

This year marks the 20^th anniversary of the Ball, which has become Bancroft’s signature event and key fundraiser. More than 300 people typically attend the Ball, which raises nearly $400,000 a year for Bancroft programs and services. For this milestone occasion, Bancroft will also recognize past honorees from the Ball’s 20-year history, including former N.J. Governor Jim Florio, State Senator Diane Allen, Philadelphia’s CBS3 TV anchor Pat Ciarrocchi, and philanthropist Marilyn Ware, former U.S. ambassador to Finland.

“It’s going to be a very special night, with many old and new friends,” added Pergolin.

Dinner chairs for the event are Raymond and Joanne Welsh of Haverford, Pa., and Lawrence and Susan Goren of Mount Laurel, N.J.

For information on tickets, sponsorship and advertising opportunities, please call Deb Conner at (856) 524-7023 or email butterflyball@bancroft.org.