23rd annual Authors Luncheon raised a record $370,000!

Authors Luncheon 2014 authors on stage with Carolyn Johnson

Abilities United’s 51 years of service to people with disabilities and the community wrapped up with its very successful fundraiser, the 23rd Authors Luncheon on Saturday November 1.  A crowd of over 500 book lovers were entertained by four renowned authors, Diane Ackerman, LeUyen Pham,  Maggie Shipstead, and David Thomson.

Special thanks to the sponsors, donors, and volunteers who helped us raise a record $370,000! $113,000 of this was generated in the fast paced Abilities United “United for the Future” auction. All these funds will help launch Abilities United into the next 50 years of service to the community.

All this success is possible because of this year’s planning committee, co-chaired by long-time friends of Abilities United, Rachel Segars and Paula Rini. Anne Vitullo, a member of the Authors Luncheon planning committee for over 12 years was the Honorary Chair.

Special thanks to Leslie Stafford, Peyton's mother, for sharing with the audience how he benefited from early intervention services. Many thanks to Carolyn Johnson for traveling from her job as co-chair of NBC4 News of Los Angeles to emcee the event for her fourth year.

Proceeds from sponsorship, ticket and book sales benefit the thousands of individuals and families who receive therapeutic, educational and support services at Abilities United.

This is truly one of the community’s most anticipated and beloved fundraising events because of the hundreds of dedicated volunteers, donors, and book lovers who join us each year.  We can't express our gratitude enough because without you, we wouldn't have an event.

Congratulations to everyone, and please save the date, November 7th, for the 2015 Abilities United Authors Luncheon!

To learn more about the benefits you, your company or book club will receive as a sponsor of the event, contact michele@AbilitiesUnited.org or 650-618-3330.