Special Needs Network’s 18th Annual Pink Pump Affair Raises Funds for Disability Justice and Workforce Inclusion

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. — Special Needs Network brought together more than 500 guests for its record-breaking 18th Annual Pink Pump Affair on May 17 at The Beverly Hilton, transforming the iconic venue into a vibrant carnival-themed celebration focused on disability justice, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Founded by award-winning civil rights attorney and media personality Areva Martin, the annual fundraiser highlighted the organization’s ongoing mission to support individuals with autism and developmental disabilities across Los Angeles.

Presented by Capital Group and U.S. Bank, the event was chaired by entertainment attorney Bonnie Berry LaMon and co-chaired by Rahel Cook and Martin. Event production was led by Nicole Dohrman of Dreams in Detail, while floral and event design was handled by Donna Robinson of Gala Divas.

The afternoon’s program was hosted by actress and comedian Kym Whitley alongside veteran CBS journalist Pat Harvey.

Three women were honored during the event for their contributions to advocacy, leadership, and representation:

• Visionary Award: Yvette Nicole Brown

• Trailblazer Award: Renata Simril

• Everyday Advocate Award: Dani Bowman, star of Love on the Spectrum

“Pink Pump is where the work meets the celebration,” Martin said during the event. “Every dollar raised in that ballroom translates directly into a child at JPAC, a young adult finding their first job through Special Flavours, a family getting the early intervention services they were told they couldn’t access.”

The event drew a high-profile guest list that included Karen Bass, Vivica A. Fox, Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles, Paralympic champion Breanna Clark, actress Dawnn Lewis, and actress Gabrielle Dennis.

Guests participated in a silent auction featuring more than 45 luxury packages, as well as a live auction offering premium concert experiences for performances by Ariana Grande, Chris Brown, and Usher.

One of the most emotional moments of the afternoon came when 19-year-old Devin Wells shared his personal journey throug