Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Denim & Diamonds for Autism - Auction - Bid Online - Deadline, Saturday, November 1, 2014 @ 11:59 pm

Submit your best offer to:
 daphne@act-today.org

The deadline to submit your best offer for each item is
Saturday, November 1, 2014 at 11:59 pm. 
Only highest bids will be notified on Monday, Nov. 03rd. 
Priority Mail for products & certificates fees will be applied.

*** 

1. The Verandah Resort & Spa, Elite Island

Enjoy a seven-night stay, up to two rooms, at The Verandah Resort & Spa in Antigua. *The winning bidder is required to pay a per person food and beverage supplement that provides all-inclusive status at the selected resort. The supplement charges are $125 per person / per night. Certificate is valid for standard accommodations. Upgraded accommodations, if available, will be at the expense of the winning bidder.  Valid through April 1, 2016, and subject to availability. Additional surcharge will apply December 21-January 3 and February 7-21.
SRV: $2,700.  

2. Big Bear Mountain Retreat for Up to 14



Enjoy a seven-night stay at this 5 bedroom, 3.3 bath Grande Lodge property in Fawnskin with incredible panoramic views of the lake and mountains for up to (14). Valid through November 2015 for a mutually agreed upon date based on availability. No pets.This gorgeous 5000 square foot home has three stories and is great for family entertaining. There are two separate and full kitchens, two living rooms, three fireplaces and a large den. Bedrooms include two bedrooms on the first floor, one with a queen and the other with a full/double. There are also two futon sofas in the fireplace area. The second floor (the main entry) has two bedrooms with a queen bed in each room. The third floor has the master bedroom with a king bed and its own bath. Other amenities include: Poker table, fireplace, four TV's/ DVD player, laundry, dishwasher and charcoal BBQ. Reservations are subject to availability. Certificates cannot be replaced if lost, stolen or destroyed. All purchases are non-refundable. Suggested retail value is calculated using tariff air rates and rack room rates. Ground transportation is not included unless where specified.
SRV: $5000


3. Round of Golf for 4 at the National Golf Management Courses











One round of golf for four (cart fees not included) valid 11/1/14 to 9/30/15 (not available March, April or October). Certificate is valid at ONE of the following courses: Aberdeen Country Club, Arcadian Shores, Grande Dunes Resort, Litchfield Country Club, Long Bay Golf Club, Myrtle Beach national Kings North, Myrtle Beach National South, Myrtle Beach National West, Myrtlewood-Palmetto, Myrtlewood-Pine Hills, Pawleys Plantation, Pine Lakes Country Club, River Club, Waterway Hills, Willbrook Plantation
SRV: $450


4. One Month Unlimited Mixed Martial Arts









One month unlimited membership for any program at our mixed martial arts and fitness school. Camarillo Mixed Martial Arts, CA
SRV $150.

5. Simply Music Lessons for (6)

4 lessons/6 people 
SRV: $140 pp

6. Tisha Walker Private Ice Skating Lessons











(5) 1/2 hour private ice skating lessons, does not include ice time or skate rentals; Simi Valley, CA. Tisha Walker has dedicated more than three decades to the sport of figure skating. And if you browse her accomplishments, it seems as though she hasn't wasted a single day. Tisha was an alternate on the 1992 U.S. Olympic team, as well as a national medalist, an international gold medalist, and a member of the World Team. Instead of letting all that experience go to waste, or using it to start a team of adorable, but ultimately useless ice-skating squirrels, Tisha now helps other skaters learn basic skills or start their own careers on the ice. She offers private lessons to recreational and competitive students, and is flexible enough to teach techniques in other icy activities such as hockey and power skating. 
SRV $200

7. Wave House Athletic Club at Belmont Park, CA

(2) 1 hr Flowrider Comp Cards at Wavehouse. Situated directly on the Mission Beach boardwalk, this 30,000 square foot outdoor venue is the perfect place to soak up the San Diego sun. Our unique environment featuring outdoor tiki bars, fire pits, cabanas and tropical palms create the quintessential California beach experience. Relax in our cabanas or catch the sunset from our beachfront bars while you enjoy a cold beer and some delicious eats or stop by to watch some riders get stoked on the world famous FlowBarrel wave machine(and the only one in the United States, might we add).
SRV $40

8. 14K Tahitian Pearl Earrings
SRV $2,000.00






9. 14k Tahitian Pearl Necklace
SRV $6,000.00












10. Fine Art Dog Photography Jesse Freidin Photographer

















Fine Art Dog Photography Session and signed 16x20 inch black and white photograph. Minimum bid must be $400. Must be activated within 30 days of auction.
SRV Value $2,000

11. Mary Ann Halpin Photography (Los Angeles)

















One photography portrait session in LA or Pine Mountain Club, CA (includes 30 poses, 1 set up, 1-2 hours in length, 1 viewing/order session 1-2 hours) and a 11x14 portrait, signed copy of Fearless Women exp 6/15/15
SRV $650

12. Monica Teurlings Studio Session














Stylish Studio session as well as one 11 x 14 artist portrait; 
SRV $445

13. Michelle Bridges USA Purple Basket
Purple Basket containing Active wear, DVD, books - Size 10 and 12 (Large) 
- Leggings (size 10US/14AU) 
- Black Twofer (size 10US/14AU) 
- Black tank top (size 12US/16AU)
- Sports bra (size 12US/16AU)
- "Total Body Transformation" book 
- Signed copy of "Losing the last 5 kilos" book 
- (2) copies of "Crunch Time" dvd 3-disc set 
- Project Extreme DVD
SRV: $350

14. Michelle Bridges USA Ultra Fitness Basket 

Red Basket containing Active wear, DVD, books - Size 6 and 8 (Medium)
- pink and white sports bra - Size 6US/10AU -
- black shorts (size 6US/10AU) 
- black shorts (size 8US/12AU) 
- Signed copy of "Your Best body" book 
- Signed copy of "Crunch Time" book 
- (2) copies of "Crunch Time" dvd 3-disc set 
- Project Shape-Up DVD
SRV : $350




15. “Gold Dust with Being” 
"Gold Dust wtih Being" original Mixed Media Painting 
SRV $875


16. Starr Children’s Advocacy & Investigative

(2) gift certificates for $500 off Education and Vocational Advocacy from Starr Children's Advocacy and Investigative services, 
Exp. 10/19/15
SRV $500





18. Fitness Classes @ Cardio Barre 

Gift Certificate for 10 classes (valid for Thousand Oaks, CA)
SRV $160







19. Dedra Beauty Set and Lesson

Dedra Be You Beauty Set + 1 hour 1 on 1 Make up Demo Session 
Value Expires 4/19/15
SRV $300







20. Gus Gates Kung Fu & Fitness (Westlake Village, CA) 

Gift Certificate, good for 1 month unlimited fitness or King Fu or Fitness Classes. One certificate per person. 3 Certificates available.
SRV $200/each





21. Trillium Sports Medicine (Calabasas, CA)









Initial Evaluation, Posture Evaluation, (1) Posture training, bio-freeze roll on, and ice pack 
SRV $425

22. Framed Fox Sports Promo Poster 
Framed Fox Sports promo poster "Beyond the Glory" TV series
SRV: Unspecified

23. Sugar Ray Leonard Autographed Boxing Gloves

1 Pair Autographed Boxing Gloves by Sugar Ray Leonard, 
Start bidding at $500
SRV: Priceless











24. Bonnie Frank Painting
Custom painting of your family or pet. 48X36.
SRV: $4,000

25. Cinemills Media Center

One full day of studio time in CMC's Studio A (including grip and lighting), must call to schedule a time and date prior to 11/19/14 (30 days)
SRV: $3500






26. The Alchemy of Beauty

60 Minute Facial with Geneva at Alchemy of Beauty (Santa Barbara, CA). Exp 2-28-15








27. Family 4-Pack to SeaWorld San Diego

4 Adult Passes to SeaWorld San Diego. Exp 3/31/15, blackout dates apply. 
Value $336







28. Chaz Dean Wen Goodie Bag

Wen Fall Apple Spice Hair Products
Retail of Wen products: $180 5 bags available






29. Visia Computer Skin Analysis & CC Hyalvuronic Acid Volumizing Filler & Light Stim Therapy by Dr. John Grazer, Newport Beach, CA. 
Expires 1/31/15
Value: $950
















Thank you for supporting the 
9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism!

Monday, October 27, 2014

ACT Today! Raises Quarter of a Million Dollars For Kids with Autism at 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds

ACT Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!) presented its 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism gala on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village, Calif. The star-studded charity gala raised a over quarter of a million dollars for direct help to children with autism whose families cannot afford the necessary tools their children need to reach their highest potential. This year’s event saw more than 500 guests for a night of giving, hosted by KTLA TV entertainment reporter Sam Rubin with celebrity presenters Magic Johnson, Julie Bowen, Charles Esten, Lennon and Maisy Stella, and Daniel and William Baldwin.


ACT Today!’s legendary fundraiser featured a cocktail reception, silent and live auctions, live entertainment and dinner program with special tribute to the 2014 honorees: actress Holly Robinson Peete, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, actor Nolan Gould ("Modern Family"), singer/songwriter Sophie Rose and philanthropist Virginia Viola. Among past ACTivist honorees are actor Joe Mantegna, TV executives Vin Di Bona and Steve Mauldin, and TV host Tom Bergeron. With special performances by ACT Today! grant recipients singer/songwriter Dominque Brown and singer Spencer Harte, dancing with the World of Ballroom Dancers and music provided by The Ventura Jazz Orchestra.

Proceeds from Denim & Diamonds for Autism will provide immediate care and treatment to children with autism, including behavioral therapy, medical treatment, assistive technology, assistance dogs, social skills programs, tuition for special needs schools and assistance to military families with children with autism.

Celebrity guests included actress Julie Bowen ("Modern Family"), NBA champion Earvin "Magic" Johnson (LA Lakers), actors William "Billy" Baldwin, Daniel Baldwin, Atticus Baldwin, son of Daniel Baldwin, actress Holly Robinson Peete, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, actor Nolan Gould ("Modern Family"), singer/songwriter Sophie Rose, actress Amy Yasbeck, actress Haley Pullos ("General Hospital"), actress Tisha Campbell-Martin ("My Wife and Kids", "Martin"), actor Duane Martin ("All of Us"), actress Breanna Yde ("The Haunted Hathaways"), actor Coy Stewart (“Are We There Yet?), lifestyle expert/on-air personality/author Susan Campbell Cross and actor Karan Brar ("Jessie").

The 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism is sponsored by Vin Di Bona Productions, Tolman & Wiker Insurance Services, LLC, Aldebaran SoftBank Group, Burbank Printing, Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Inc., SMI Concepts, Inc., Jay and Judy Hearst, Nevers, Palazzo, Packard, Wildermuth & Wynner, PC, Puritas Organic Gold, UBS Financial Services, 20th Century FOX Television, Forever Yours, City National Bank, The Shape of Behavior, Meyer, Lineagen, Olson, Lowy & Meyers LLP, Morrie Sage's Universal City Nissan, Lineagen, Isabella Emporium, Private Protective Services, Westlake Magazine, Rage Models, Tito's Handmade Vodka, The Resort at Pelican Hill-Newport Beach, Product Confidential and UnitedHealthcare.

For more information about ACT Today!'s Denim and Diamonds visit: www.denimanddiamondsforautism.net.

Sunday, October 12, 2014

Hollywood and Sports Stars Impacted by Autism Join ACT Today! for 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism

Hollywood and Sports Stars Impacted by Autism Join ACT Today! 
for 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism

ACT Today! hosts its 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism gala honoring film, sports, and community activists, October 19th in Westlake Village, Calif. 

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 19, 2014 –  ACT Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!) will present its 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism gala on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village, Calif. The star-studded charity gala has raised over $1 million dollars for direct help to children with autism whose families cannot afford the necessary tools their children need to reach their highest potential. This year’s event expects more than 500 guests for a night of giving, hosted by KTLA TV entertainment reporter Sam Rubin with celebrity presenters Magic Johnson, Julie Bowen, Charles Esteen and Stephen, Daniel and William Baldwin. 

ACT Today!’s legendary fundraiser will feature a cocktail reception, silent and live auctions, live entertainment and dinner program with special tribute to the 2014 honorees: actress Holly Robinson Peete, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, actor Nolan Gould ("Modern Family"), singer/songwriter Sophie Rose and philanthropist Virginia Viola. Among past ACTivist honorees are actor Joe Mantegna, TV executives Vin Di Bona and Steve Mauldin, and TV host Tom Bergeron.

Proceeds from Denim & Diamonds for Autism will provide immediate care and treatment to children with autism, including behavioral therapy, medical treatment, assistive technology, assistance dogs, social skills programs, tuition for special needs schools and assistance to military families with children with autism. 

Confirmed red carpet guests include: actress Julie Bowen, actress ("Modern Family"), NBA champion Earvin "Magic" Johnson (LA Lakers), actors Stephen Baldwin, William "Billy" Baldwin, Daniel Baldwin, Atticus Baldwin (nephew of Baldwin brothers), actress Holly Robinson Peete, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, former NFL running back Marcus Allen, actor Nolan Gould, ("Modern Family"), actor Charles Esteen ("Nashville"), actress Leah Remini ("Kings and Queens"), actor Jason Priestley ("Beverly Hills 90210"), TV host/model Daisy Fuentes, singer/songwriter Sophie Rose, actress Amy Yasbeck, actress Haley Pullos, ("General Hospital"), actress Tisha Campbell-Martin ("My Wife and Kids", "Martin"), actor Duane Martin ("All of Us"), actress Aubrey Anderson Emmons ("Modern Family") actress Breanna Yde ("The Haunted Hathaways"), lifestyle expert/on-air personality/author Susan Campbell Cross, actor Karan Brar ("Jessie").

The 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism is sponsored by Vin Di Bona Productions, Tolman & Wiker Insurance Services, LLC; Aldebara SoftBank Group, Burbank Printing, Center for Autism and Related Disorders, SMI Concepts; Nevers, Palazzo, Package, Wildermuth & Wynner, PC, Puritas Organic Gold, UBS, 20th Century FOX Television, Forever Yours, City National Bank, The Shape of Behavior, Meyer, Olson, Lowy & Meyers Family Law, Morrie Sage's Universal City Nissan, Isabella Emporium, Private Protective Services, Westlake Magazine, Rage Models, Tito's Handmade Vodka, The Resort at Pelican Hill-Newport Beach, Product Confidential and UnitedHealthcare.

For more information about ACT Today!'s Denim and Diamonds visit: www.denimanddiamondsforautism.net.

Press Contact: Daphne Plump, D. Plump Consulting, pr@dplump.com

Thursday, October 9, 2014

RED CARPET MEDIA ALERT - 9th ANNUAL DENIM & DIAMONDS FOR AUTISM, OCT 19


**RED CARPET - MEDIA ALERT**
HOLLYWOOD'S BRIGHTEST COME OUT 
TO INCREASE AUTISM AWARENESS, OCT 19


WHO:
  • Julie Bowen, actress ("Modern Family")
  • Stephen Baldwin, actor
  • William "Billy" Baldwin, actor
  • Daniel Baldwin, actor ("Homicide: Life on the Streets")
  • ​Atticus Baldwin, nephew of Baldwin brothers, has autism 
  • ​Holly Robinson Peete, actress/honoree
  • Rodney Peete, former NFL quarterback/honoree
  • Alan Thicke, actor ("Growing Pains," "Unusually Thicke")
  • Marcus Allen, former NFL running back
  • Nolan Gould, actor/honoree ("Modern Family")
  • Charles Esteen, actor ("Nashville")
  • Sophie Rose, singer/songwriter/honoree
  • Amy Yasbeck, actress
  • Haley Pullos, actress ("General Hospital")
  • Jason Priestley, actor ("Beverly Hills 90210")
  • Leah Remini, actress ("Kings and Queens")
  • Daisy Fuentes, TV hosts/model
  • Tisha Campbell-Martin, actress ("My Wife and Kids", "Martin")
  • Duane Martin, actor ("All of Us")
  • Aubrey Anderson Emmons, actress ("Modern Family")
  • Ariel Winter, actress ("Modern Family")
  • Breanna Yde, actress ("The Haunted Hathaways")
  • Susan Campbell Cross, Lifestyle Expert/On-Air Personality/Author of The FabYOUList
  • Karan Brar, actor Disney's ("Jessie")
  • Domonique Brown, has autism, singer/songwriter, Marvin Gaye's great nephew
  • Spencer Harte, has autism, singer, first person with autism to sing in LA Opera camp
WHAT:
Autism Care and Treatment Today! (ACT Today!), a national nonprofit organization, will host its 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism ​fundraiser with special tribute to the 2014 honorees actress Holly Robinson Peete, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, actor Nolan Gould, singer/songwriter Sophie Rose and community activist Virginia Viola.​ 

WHEN:​
​Sunday, October 19, 2014
Press Check-In: 3:30 pm (Press Must RSVP By Oct.15)
Press Set Up Completed By:​​ 4:30 pm​
​Red Carpet Arrivals: 5:00 - 6:00 pm​

WHERE:
Four Seasons Hotel 
2 Dole Drive, Westlake Village, 91362

​PRESS CONTACT: 
(MUST HAVE PRESS CREDENTIALS)
Must RSVP by Oct.15 to Daphne@act-today.org

ADDITIONAL POINTS:
The 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism will raise much needed funds for direct and immediate care and treatment to children with autism, including access to:
  • assistive technology
  • behavioral therapy
  • medical care
  • social skills programs
  • access to special needs schools
  • basic safety equipment
  • assistance dogs
  • and assistance to military families with kids with autism
Since the creation of Denim & Diamonds, ACT Today! has given over $1.5 million dollars in care and treatment to children with autism whose families cannot afford the necessary tools their children need to reach their full potential. For more information about the charitable event, please visit: www.DenimAndDiamondsForAutism.net​



Saturday, July 12, 2014

ACT Today! Hosts 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism

ACT Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!) announces its highly anticipated 9th Annual Denim & Diamonds for Autism, benefiting children with autism, will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2014 at the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village. More than 500 attendees are expected to attend the red carpet gala, including film, television and sports celebrities, the corporate community and other autism supporters.

The red carpet fundraiser will feature a cocktail reception, silent and live auctions, dinner program with surprise celebrity presenters, live entertainment and tribute awards to the 2014 honorees: actress Holly Robinson Peete, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, actor Nolan Gould (“Modern Family”), singer/songwriter Sophie Rose and Ventura County, Calif. philanthropist Virginia Viola.


ACT Today! is a national, non-profit organization whose mission is to provide access to care and treatment to children with autism whose families cannot afford the necessary tools their children need to reach their highest potential. Its signature fundraiser, Denim & Diamonds for Autism, is considered one of Southern California's most anticipated non-profit events of the year. Proceeds from the event will provide immediate and direct help to children with autism, including behavioral therapy, medical treatment, assistive technology, assistance dogs, social skills programs, tuition for special needs schools and assistance to military families with children with autism. Since the creation of Denim & Diamonds for Autism, ACT Today! has distributed $1.5 million in care and treatment.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2014), 1 in every 68 children in America is diagnosed with autism, making it more prevalent than juvenile diabetes, childhood cancer and pediatric AIDS combined, in addition to being the fastest growing disability in America.

"Autism is a serious societal issue and affects all of us,” said Nancy Alspaugh-Jackson, ACT Today!’s executive director. “We need to spread autism awareness and encourage others to support agencies that work on behalf of children with autism. We need to make sure that these children obtain the fundamental elements that can improve their quality of life.”


For more information about ACT Today!’s Denim and Diamonds visit: www.denimanddiamondsforautism.net.  


About ACT Today!: ACT Today! (Autism Care and Treatment Today!) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing resources and funding to families of children with autism who cannot afford or access the necessary tools their children need to reach their full potential. For more information about ACT Today!, visit: www.act-today.org

Monday, July 7, 2014

ACT Today! Salutes Actor Nolan Gould, 2014 ACTivist Honoree

Nolan Gould
2014 ACTivist Honoree

Nolan Gould is an actor best known for his role as youngest sibling Luke Dunphy on the ABC sitcom “Modern Family.” Nolan recently wrapped the Civil War drama “Field of Lost Shoes”, starring David Arquette, Lauren Holly, and Tom Skerritt. 

Other film credits include Max in “The To-Do List,” starring Andy Samberg, Rachel Bilson and Bill Hader, and “Friends with Benefits,” where he played Sam the Magnificent, Justin Timberlake’s budding magician nephew. Gould’s television credits include the starring in the made-for-TV movie “Ghoul” and the live-action hub Original Series “R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour.” 

Nolan is a Boy Scout and active member of Mensa and loves practicing Parkour. 

ACT Today! Salutes Recording Artist Sophie Rose, 2014 Golden Cowgirl

Sophie Rose
2014 Golden Cowgirl

14-year old singer/songwriter Sophie Rose was born in Los Angeles on Christmas Day, 1999. With perfect pitch, Sophie has been singing almost as long as she’s been talking. Taking her inspiration from Britney, Miley and Taylor, Sophie started guitar lessons at age 9 and began writing songs in earnest – often spending long hours locked in her room writing. She currently has written over 90 songs at her young age.

Sophie believes songwriting is a coping mechanism and, for her, it’s a way to express her feelings in a creative and beautiful manner. While she admits to wanting to be a superstar like Taylor Swift, Sophie is equally excited to hear other stars record her songs! Sophie recently signed as the first writer to a publishing joint venture between hit songwriter Ester Dean and Dr. Luke’s Prescription Songs.

Sophie is also using her talents to help others by supporting charitable causes including ACT Today! Autism Care and Treatment and the American Red Cross. ACT Today! is especially near and dear to her as she has been working with this amazing organization for the last 4 years. She recently co-wrote the song “Firefly”, and is donating 100% of her proceeds from each individual download to ACT Today!  The song is available for purchase on iTunes, CD Baby and other digital retailers.

ACT Today! Salutes Philanthropist Virginia Viola with 2014 Visionary Award

Virginia Viola
2014 Visionary Honoree

October 21, 1924 - March 30, 2014

Virginia’s journey through life began in Los Angeles as the only child of an Irish Immigrant mother and a WW1 veteran from Colorado. In her youth she worked for Hal Roach Studios making limited appearances in Our Gang & Little Rascals movie shorts. At 13 she acquired her business savvy in the family restaurant, due to the untimely death of her father. At 17 she declined a scholarship in mathematics at Stanford University in order to help her mother run the family business.

It was in the early WWII years when her course was redirected by a US Naval officer by the name of Ralph Viola that danced his way into her heart. They were married in February of 1944, and landed in Oxnard to start their family and construction company.

As the co-founder of Viola Inc., Constructors she was instrumental in the financial success of the company for 68 years. Together they built many landmark projects in Ventura, LA, and Santa Barbara Counties. They were honored to work extensively with the Los Angeles Archdiocese.

Virginia’s aptitude in math allowed her to balance the books of four companies to the penny and fueled her passion to play Bridge. She was an early member of the Ventura County Dance Club and the treasurer of the Assistance League where she was influential in the purchase of the Chapter House in Ventura. She and Ralph were involved with the Contractors State License Board, AGC and other organizations that led them to dinner at the White house under two separate administrations.

She was a devoted wife, exceptional business partner, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

ACT Today! Salutes TV Star and Advocate Holly Robinson-Peete, 2014 ACTivist Honoree

Holly Robinson-Peete
2014 ACTivist

Actress, author, talk show host, activist and philanthropist, Holly Robinson Peete has been touched by the entertainment industry all of her life. Her career as an actress dates back more than two decades and has led her  to becoming a voice for her father, her son, and her community.Robinson Peete recently joined the cast of the hit  comedy series Mike & Molly shortly after successfully launching the CBS daily talk show The Talk as one of the  original co-hosts. The Talk came on the heels of the enormous success Robinson Peete had on the third season of NBCʼs Celebrity Apprentice.

In 1997, Robinson Peete and her husband, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, formed the HollyRod Foundation, inspired by her fatherʼs courageous battle with Parkinsonʼs disease, with the mission to help improve the quality of life of people with Parkinsonʼs. Then in 2005, inspired by their eldest sonʼs autism diagnosis, HollyRod Foundationʼs mission expanded to provide support and resources to those affected by an autism diagnosis. Through the HollyRod Foundation and her familyʼs personal experiences, Robinson Peete has become an advocate for consistent and reliable education, outreach and support for both Parkinsonʼs and autism. Her autism advocacy also extends to her book with daughter, Ryan Elizabeth Peete. In 2010, Robinson Peete  released her second book, an NAACP Image Award winning childrenʼs book about autism from the siblingʼs perspective, co-authored by 12-year old Elizabeth Peete, entitled My Brother Charlie (Scholastic). With her first  book Get Your Own Damn Beer, Iʼm Watching the Game: A Womenʼs Guide to Loving Pro Football (2005, Rodale), Robinson Peete won the 2006 Quill Literacy Award. Robinson Peeteʼs first experience in front of the camera was at the age of four when she appeared opposite her father, Matthew Robinson, who served as a producer and portrayed the original character of “Gordon” on  Sesame Street. Robinson Peete soon opted to lead a typical childhood. However, upon finishing her college  education, Robinson Peeteʼs heart led her back to entertainment. In 1986, she starred in the FOX television drama 21 Jump Street alongside Johnny Depp. 

She went on to star in many other successful television series  including Hanginʼ With Mr. Cooper, For Your Love, and One on One. Robinson Peeteʼs successful television career places her as one of only a handful of actresses to star in four shows in syndication. Robinson Peeteʼs philanthropic efforts have earned her numerous awards and honors including: Fordʼs Freedom Sisters, American Mentor Award, The Southern California Broadcastersʼ Assoc Community Service  Award, Gerald R. Ford People Helping People Award, The March of Dimes Healthy Babies, Healthy Futures Award, USC Woman of Distinction Award, Anheuser Busch John E. Jacob Community Service Award, The Genii Award, The Girls Inc. Mentor Award, A Place Called Home Humanitarian Award and McDonaldʼs 365  Black Award.Robinson Peete and husband of 17 years, Rodney Peete, are the proud parents of four children. 

ACT Today! Salutes Former NFL Quarterback Rodney Peete, 2014 ACTivist

Rodney Peete
2014 ACTivist Honoree

NFL veteran quarterback Rodney Peete, best known for his leadership and a winning attitude, spent 16 successful years in the NFL. His admired position in the public eye has led him to a successful career as sports star, television/radio personality, author and philanthropist. In March 2010, Peete released his first book, Not My Boy! A
Father, a Son, and One Familyʼs Journey with Autism. The story, based on the Peete familyʼs experience raising a child with autism, is published by Hyperion and is currently receiving wide acclaim. Through Not My Boy!, Peete is giving a voice to an often unheard journey: the father. Influencers from across the country have acknowledged Rodneyʼs brave story of a father coming to terms with his childʼs autism diagnosis while simultaneously fighting to keep his family intact.

“I wish I had something fancy to say, but this story is simply beyond  words—just read it! I vote to make Rodneyʼs book, Not My Boy!, required reading for every first-time, secondtime, or any-other-time father.” –Will Smith, Actor/Producer.

Following his NFL career, Peete went on to become a co-host on Fox Sportsʼ The Best Damn Sports Show Period. In 2008, he and wife, actress Holly Robinson Peete, hosted Meet the Peetes on XM Radioʼs Oprah Radio. Meet the Peetes focused on the life of two working parents raising their four children, balancing their careers and being activists and advocates on issues that affected them and their family. Peete is president of HollyRod Entertainment, a Los Angeles-based entertainment and investment firm. Additionally, he is a co-founder of the HollyRod Foundation, an organization established to generate funds to fight Parkinsonʼs Disease, support children suffering from autism, and improve the quality of life for those in need.

Peete also serves on the Board of Governors at his alma mater, USC, from where he holds a B.A. and was  First Team All-American and 1988 Player of the Year.  Peete and Robinson Peete have been married for 17 years and are the proud parents of four children. The family resides in Los Angeles.