Gala

IT WAS THE RED CARPET CHARITY EVENT OF THE YEAR!

We were thrilled to step into the Roaring Twenties for an unforgettable evening of glamour, generosity, and purpose — celebrating inclusion in true 1920s style. The night shone a spotlight on the power of play, dignity, and social connection for children of all abilities.

The evening kicked off with a lively red carpet, featuring guests such as producer Arthur Sarkissian (Rush Hour, While You Were Sleeping), Rob Minkoff (The Lion King, Stuart Little) and his wife Crystal King (The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills), actor Tyrese Gibson and brand ambassador Zelie Timothy, producer Chris McGurk (Terrifier 3), Robert Pine (CHiPs) and his wife, actress Gwynne Gilford (Masters of the Universe), Nell Teare (Memphis), Isaac Jean-Paul (two-time Paralympian), and many others.

The Cocktail Reception set the stage for the evening, featuring hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, wine and spirits pull, opportunity drawing, and an amazing photo booth with black-and-white photos for all our guests, compliments of HStudio Collective and All Glam’d Up, followed by a mission-based program highlighting our impact and inspiring stories.

We were delighted to have Hunter March (Best Guess Live) as our host, joined by producer and board member Jeff Apploff for the live auction. The show opened with a marvelous performance from the LA Follies.

We were also honored to feature two films that center on disability: Rise and Shine starring Ana Sharp, who spoke along with producer Robert Mitas, and Once More, Like Rainman, starring Bella Zoe Aleffi, who was joined by her mother Melissa Aleffi. Abbey Romeo (Love on the Spectrum) introduced our incredible Youth Choir, and Sam Asghari (actor, model) introduced the brilliant performances by Down for Dance.

Our honorees were Schuyler Aragawa and Meridith Alexander, who received the ImPossible Award presented by our CEO/Co-Founder, Tiffany Harris, and Mary Ann Hunt-Jacobsen and Eric Jacobsen, who received the Legacy of Inclusion Award presented by our Director of Dream Fulfillment and longtime friend, Valerie Hambas Sarkissian.

Proceeds from the Gala supported our inclusive playground development, education, and outreach programs, ensuring every child experienced the joy and connection of play.

We extend our deepest thanks to our generous sponsors and to everyone who joined us for the event, volunteered, or donated. It truly was a Roaring good time!

For more information, call (818) 988-5676 or email marci@inclusionmatters.org.