Actors for Autism will honor longtime advocate Joe Mantegna at this year’s Reach for the Stars Red Carpet benefit.
The Criminal Minds star will be honored at a fundraising dinner and show on October 2, at the Rockwell Table & Stage in Los Angeles, hosted by actress and current AFA president, Charlene Tilton (Dallas).
Actors for Autism is a non-profit organization that provides arts and social skills programs for individuals with disabilities ages six and up and features acting classes, animation, claymation, film making, social skills, vocational training and social activities. The organization was founded in 2005 by Alisa Wolf.
“I really respect what Actors for Autism is doing and working with the kids there has been such a rewarding and humbling experience,” says Mantegna. “I truly appreciate this award.”
Mantegna will receive with the Humanitarian of the Year Award for his dedication to making a difference in the lives of children and adults on the autistic spectrum. He has worked with the organization since its inception in 2005 and currently serves on the advisory board, along with Zoe Saldana (Blood Ties), Susan Olsen (The Brady Bunch), and Danny Woodburn (All American Christmas Carol). Great actors like RJ Mitte (Breaking Bad) and Bruce Davison (The Bronx Bull) have taught workshops for the kids.
“The work that Joe Mantegna is doing for Actors for Autism is truly commendable and we are so pleased to be able to recognize him publicly,” says Tilton. “We are so thankful for people like Joe who continue to support us so that these kids can have the same opportunities that everyone else has.”
Reach for the Stars will feature a Red Carpet VIP Cocktail Reception and silent auction, followed by dinner and a show featuring the kids performing.
David Alan Basche (The Exes), Colleen Camp (American Hustle), Bruce Davison, Ami Dolenz (Committed), John Landis, Bobby Moresco (The Black Donnelly’s), John Schneider (The Haves and the Have Nots), Jerry Trimble, Jr. (She Made Them Do It), Kathy Buckley (My Next Breath), Al Burton (Emmy-winning producer), Fred Roos, Dave Clark, Danny Jacobson and Ron Masak also serve on the Actors for Autism advisory board.
Tickets available at: www.rockwell-la.inticketing.com.
