Impact Evening 2026: Hope, Community, and Changing Lives

On June 10, 2026, the California Rehabilitation Foundation welcomed supporters, friends, partners, and community leaders to Impact Evening, our annual fundraising event celebrating the people, stories, and purpose behind our mission.

It was an evening filled with inspiring stories, meaningful connections, and a shared belief in the power of hope, healing, and independence.

Most importantly, it was a reminder that when a community comes together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people living with physical disabilities.

A Mission Driven by Hope
The California Rehabilitation Foundation exists to help individuals overcome the barriers created by life-changing injuries and disabilities. Through grants, education, research, and innovative programs, we provide resources that help people regain mobility, independence, confidence, and connection to their communities.

Since launching our Enabling Independence Program in July 2024, the Foundation has awarded more than $180,000 in grants to 54 individuals, helping recipients access critical equipment and resources that may otherwise be out of reach.

Impact Evening gave us the opportunity to celebrate that progress and, more importantly, to share the stories behind the impact.

Voices Behind Our Mission
We were honored to hear from three leaders who play an important role in advancing the Foundation’s mission. Glenn Irani, MD, Board Chair; Maneshka Cohen, Executive Director; and Michelle Sullivan, Board Member and CEO of California Rehabilitation Institute, who shared their perspectives on the Foundation’s mission, growth, and the importance of creating opportunities for greater independence. 

Together, they spoke to the heart of what drives the Foundation: providing hope and practical support to people facing life-changing injuries and disabilities, while creating pathways toward greater independence and a brighter future.

Their message was clear. The Foundation’s impact is made possible through the strength of our community and the generosity of those who believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a full and independent life.

Stories of Independence
One of the most powerful moments of the evening was hearing directly from people whose lives have been changed through the support of the Cal Rehab Foundation.

Hannah’s Story
We heard from JP, who spoke on behalf of his partner, Hannah. Following a devastating ATV accident, both Hannah and JP were left with paralysis.

For Hannah, everyday activities became significant challenges. Getting to work, going to the grocery store, or attending a doctor’s appointment required planning and assistance. Her wheelchair was essential to her mobility, but it was too heavy for her to lift into her car independently.

Thanks to a lightweight wheelchair funded through the Cal Rehab Foundation, Hannah can now lift and transport her wheelchair herself.

That seemingly simple change has made an enormous difference.

She can drive, get to work, run errands, and participate in her community with greater freedom and independence.

For Hannah, the right equipment didn’t just make mobility easier. It made independence possible.

Nicholas Fernandez: From Career Connections Recipient to Graduate
We also heard from Nicholas Fernandez, whose story represents another important part of the Foundation’s mission.

Nicholas originally worked at California Rehabilitation Institute before becoming a recipient of the Foundation’s Career Connections Program. Through the program, he received support and opportunities that helped him continue developing his education and career.

Today, Nicholas is a graduate of the Career Connections Program, demonstrating the power of investing in individuals and creating pathways toward meaningful careers.

His journey is a powerful reminder that opportunity can change the trajectory of a life.

The Foundation’s commitment extends beyond providing assistance today. Through programs like Career Connections, we strive to help individuals build the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need for tomorrow.

The Impact of Your Support
Throughout the evening, we were reminded that the equipment and programs we provide are about much more than a wheelchair, a standing frame, or a scholarship.

They are about what those resources make possible.

• The ability to work.
• The ability to go to school.
• The ability to care for a family.
• The ability to participate in the community.
• The ability to move forward.

Every grant has a story behind it. Every scholarship represents an opportunity. Every donation helps create another possibility.

Thank You for Being Part of the Journey
We are deeply grateful to everyone who made Impact Evening possible, including our sponsors, donors, volunteers, Board of Directors, partners, speakers, and everyone who joined us for this special evening.

Your presence and generosity are an important part of our growing community. Together, we are creating opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities to live with greater independence, dignity, and hope.

The evening may be over, but the impact continues.

Every story begins with hope. Together, we can help write what comes next.

Help Us Continue the Impact
Your donation can help provide life-changing equipment, educational opportunities, scholarships, and support to individuals with physical disabilities.

Donate today and help bring hope, healing, and independence to someone who needs it.

And we are just getting started. We look forward to building something even bigger together next year.

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