BEVERLY HILLS, CA – The Special Needs Network (SNN) is excited to announce the resounding success of its 16th Annual Pink Pump Affair, which took place on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at the iconic Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The “Sweet Sixteen” event commemorated sixteen years of dedicated service to families affected by autism and other developmental disabilities. The award-winning journalist Pat Harvey from CBS 2 News hosted the affair!
“This year’s Pink Pump Affair was a testament to the power of community and the impact we can have when we come together for a common cause,” said Areva Martin, President and Founder of Special Needs Network. “The support we received will allow us to continue our mission of providing critical resources and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities. I am deeply grateful to our board members for their unwavering dedication and support in making this night unforgettable.”
The past year has highlighted an urgent need for increased support and advocacy, particularly underscored by the recent tragic events, including the loss of young Ryan Gainer. These events have prompted essential conversations about the intersection of disability and societal systems, culminating in a pivotal Town Hall discussion and policy briefing in Washington, D.C. These discussions have reinforced the necessity of SNN’s mission and the critical impact of its services.
The event honored four exceptional individuals whose work and advocacy have made a significant impact on the lives of people with disabilities:
- Trailblazer Award: Tamera Mowry-Housley, an Emmy Award-winning host, author, actress, producer, and entrepreneur, celebrated for her inspiring career and advocacy efforts.
- Game Changer Award: Alva Adams-Mason, Group Manager, Multicultural Business Alliance & Dealer Relations, Toyota Motor North America, recognized for her exemplary leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion.
- Self-Advocate Award: Cristy Romero, is a dedicated SNN participant and an inspiring advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Areva Martin Everyday Advocate Award: Michael Jett, entrepreneur, and autism self-advocate, was honored for his tireless efforts to increase supplier diversity at Kroger and his advocacy in the autism community.
The event included a lively auction by comedians Kym Whitley and Buddy Lewis, showcasing exclusive opportunities such as a VIP Padres Suite Experience and a culinary extravaganza with celebrity chef Kevin Bludso. Attendees enjoyed an elegant gala dinner and were moved by SNN President and Founder Areva Martin, Esq’s remarks, and a special appearance by Jackee Harry. Furthermore, impactful testimonials emphasized the essential contribution of SNN’s services.
The Pink Pump Affair has successfully raised funds to support the expansion of the C.A.D.D. and other essential programs to provide comprehensive resources for children and families in underserved communities. One of the initiatives, the Food Truck project, offers valuable job training and employment opportunities for young adults with disabilities, addressing the 85% unemployment rate within this demographic.
Special Needs Network celebrates this significant milestone and looks forward to continuing its mission of promoting developmental disability awareness and dismantling discriminatory care systems. The organization extends deep gratitude to all who contributed to the overwhelming success of the Sweet Sixteen Pink Pump Affair.
For more information about the Special Needs Network and to learn how to support its mission, please visit www.specialneedsnetwork.org.