Since the first Authors Luncheon 33 years ago, it has become a marquee celebration of storytelling, community, and philanthropy. AbilityPath has hosted this annual gathering, where literature intersects with our mission to empower individuals with developmental disabilities.

By every measure, this year’s Luncheon was another magnificent success. It brought together three best-selling authors, over 260 engaged guests and displayed beautiful creations from the talented artists in AbilityPath’s art program.

Highlights from the Event:

Over its 33-year history, the Authors Luncheon has raised over $7 million, helping fund programs that foster independence, belonging, and joy for individuals with developmental disabilities. Thanks to the incredible generosity of sponsors and donors, this year’s Luncheon continued this tradition of generosity by raising over $360,000 for our programs!

AbilityPath’s Mission:

The event’s theme, “Authors, Art, and Abilities,” reinforced AbilityPath’s commitment to creating a world where people of all abilities are accepted, respected, and included. By sharing the experiences of Doug Sheehan and Gabi Dedek, we highlighted the impact AbilityPath has had on their lives through our unique offering of a lifespan of services. We ensure continuous support starting from infancy and into “seniorhood.” For example, we have been blessed to be there to share in Gabi’s many outstanding successes for fifty years!

Community and Belonging:

We acknowledged the tireless dedication of our board members, advisory council members, and volunteers whose efforts make our services possible. The Authors Luncheon Committee and AbilityPath staff earned a special “shout-out” for putting together another spectacular event. Working together, the entire community helps ensure that AbilityPath’s mission and programs continue to thrive and expand.

A Shared Vision of Service and Community:

We were honored to congratulate and recognize Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian with the inaugural Visionary Leader and Social Impact Award. We also thanked Congresswoman Anna Eshoo for her three decades of leadership in Congress and for making an impactful difference in our community.

Their work has inspired positive change across the Bay Area and beyond. Joe Simitian and Anna Eshoo exemplify public service at its finest. They share a commitment to improving lives and creating inclusive communities. Their dedication aligns with AbilityPath’s mission to support individuals with developmental disabilities and foster a sense of belonging for all. Their deeds demonstrate that life’s purpose is to serve the common good.

Authors Program:

Returning for her sixth year, our emcee for the event was the talented, funny, and inspiring Maureen Langan. Three gifted authors gave us an inside look at the writing and storytelling process:

• Guy Kawasaki: Known for his roles at Apple and Canva, Guy shared insights from his book Think Remarkable, encouraging individuals to embrace personal growth and contribute to a better world.
• John McNellis: A real estate developer turned novelist, he spoke about Scout’s Honor, his latest thriller about crime, punishment, and redemption.
• Meredith Jaeger: The author of The Incorrigibles discussed her fascination with untold Californian history and the connections between past and present.
• AbilityPath Artists: The Pop-Up Art Store featured original artwork by Gabi Dedek, Jazthri, Daniel Arroyo, Matthaus, Ingrid Lai, and children’s book author and illustrator Doug Sheehan. Many luncheon guests purchased beautiful artistic creations, from sculptures to notebooks to paintings, with the proceeds going to the artists and covering the costs of art program supplies and framing.

Looking Forward

The Luncheon highlighted the literary accomplishments of the guest authors and underscored the ongoing need to support programs that empower individuals with disabilities. As AbilityPath marches toward its vision of a more inclusive society, we invite everyone to participate in this journey—whether through donations, volunteering, or celebrating the stories that improve our communities.

Fostering a greater sense of acceptance, belonging, and compassion will help us build a brighter, more inclusive future. Thank you to all who attended and supported this year’s Authors luncheon. Look for next year’s Luncheon to learn how you can get involved and continue making a difference!