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A business venture that grew from a daughter’s love of pinball has become one of the Jersey Shore’s most popular destinations.

And now Rob Ilvento, founder of the Silverball Museum and Arcade on the Asbury Park Boardwalk, will be honored for his continual support and work as a parent-advocate for autism awareness by The Arc Of Monmouth County.   

“Autistic children have a difficult time connecting,” Ilvento [at right] said in a written statement. “But Morgan connected to pinball like nothing else.”

Ilvento said her love of the game prompted him to begin collecting pinball machines, which in turn led to opening the museum and arcade in 2009. And, a USA Today Readers Poll recently named the venue Best Attraction in New Jersey.

“We are thrilled to recognize Rob Ilvento for his longtime support of the autistic and I/DD community, as both a business leader and dedicated father,” said event Chair Holly Annarella Flego of Colts Neck.

Ilvento is known for hosting autism awareness and fundraising event at the Silverball Museum and welcomes patrons with special needs.

The entrepreneur is known for launching the 19-chain Cluck U Chicken in 1985 while a sophomore at Rutgers University. He also owns Jersey Shore Fry Company and a second Silverball Museum in Delray Beach, Fla.

Proceeds from the The Arc’s Winter Glow Gala will benefit the 1,600 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities [I/DD] served by Tinton Falls based nonprofit.

The 7 p.m. event, being held at Eagle Oaks Golf & Country Club in Farmingdale, features celebrity auctioneer Nick Dawes from Antique Roadshow, pinball, casino games, cocktails, dinner, a 10-piece band, and surprises that keep within the ‘Get Your Glow On’ theme, organizers said. Aside from a 50/50, there will be a restaurant raffle featuring dozens of gift cards for some the Jersey Shore’s most renowned eateries.

For more information, visit arcofmonmouth.org/winterglow. 

[Photos courtesy of The Arc of Monmouth County]

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