An Evening of Advocacy, Love, and Hope for Children with Special Needs
The Universal Sheraton in Los Angeles hosted an unforgettable evening filled with compassion and purpose. The Jonathan Foundation’s 11th Annual Spring Fundraiser brought together families, advocates, educators, and celebrities, all united by one cause: supporting children with special needs. At the heart of this year’s sold-out event was honoree Denise Richards, acclaimed actress, philanthropist, and mother.
Richards, who attended with her husband Aaron Phypers, was honored for her ongoing advocacy work, both personally and publicly. In 2011, she adopted her youngest daughter Eloise, who was later diagnosed with a rare chromosomal disorder known as Monosomy 8p. Now 14 years old, Eloise continues to inspire her mother and all who meet her.
“I’ve heard that special needs children are angels from God, and I agree,” Richards shared in her emotional speech. “Eloise is a bright light in my life. She’s 14 and more responsible than my 20- and 21-year-old daughters.”
The evening was hosted by beloved five-time Emmy Award-winning retired KNBC weathercaster Fritz Coleman, with special recognition given to actress Geri Jewell, best known as Cousin Geri on The Facts of Life. Jewell received the Legacy Impact Award for breaking barriers as the first person with a visible disability to hold a regular role on a primetime television series.
The Jonathan Foundation, founded by Raja Marhaba, advocates for children with learning disabilities and complex educational needs. Inspired by her own sons, Jonathan and Omar, both diagnosed with ADHD and learning challenges, Marhaba created a comprehensive advocacy and assessment program to support families navigating the special education system. Both sons now sit on the Foundation’s board, offering relatable guidance to families walking the same path.
The event’s proceeds will go toward assessments, advocacy services, and psychoeducational evaluations for children affected by conditions including autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, dyslexia, and more. Marhaba’s award-winning work earned her national recognition as one of L’Oréal Paris’s 2019 Women of Worth. L’Oréal returned as the event’s lead sponsor this year, generously providing luxurious swag bags and including copies of Marhaba’s book, Unstoppable: A Parent’s Survival Guide for Special Education Services with an IEP or 504 Plan.
Richards’ philanthropic reach extends beyond this event. With her husband, she co-founded the Quantum Reach Foundation, focused on wellness innovations for children and animals. She also partnered with ShoeDazzle to create the “Eloise” heel, raising over $15,000 for the Kidney Cancer Association.
Richards, a New York Times bestselling author (The Real Girl Next Door) and star of Bravo’s Denise Richards & Her Wild Things, continues to use her platform to raise awareness and support for the special needs community. Her message at the fundraiser was clear: “Every child deserves the right tools and opportunities to thrive. Raising a child with special needs is a journey of love, patience, and advocacy.”
As heartfelt testimonies were shared, guests were reminded of the power of collective compassion. Stories from parents, educators, and children highlighted the life-changing impact of early intervention, community support, and unwavering belief in every child’s potential Raja Marhabe
The night ended not just with applause, but with renewed purpose. Events like The Jonathan Foundation’s Spring Fundraiser don’t just raise money—they raise hope. Thanks to the tireless work of Raja Marhaba and champions like Denise Richards, the journey for families navigating special education is filled with more light, more love, and more support than ever before.
For more information about The Jonathan Foundation, visit www.thejonathanfoundation.org or follow them on Instagram @thejonathanfoundation.
Photo Credit by Deborah Hayter and Karim Saafir
