By Darlene Donloe
Contributing Writer
LOS ANGELES — Holly Robinson Peete is still as fired up and determined today about the work she and her husband Rodney Peete are doing with their nonprofit, HollyRod Foundation, as she was when they launched the organization in 1997.
She will tell you it’s because she believes the organization is making a difference.
Inspired by her father and son, the HollyRod Foundation was formed by Peete, a popular actress, and her husband, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, in honor of Holly’s father, Matthew T. Robinson Jr., who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease at 45. An actor, writer and television producer, Robinson, who died in 2002, was the first actor to portray the character of Gordon on Sesame Street.
The founding principle of the HollyRod Foundation is Parkinson’s disease. Its original efforts were advocacy and compassionate care for families caring for a loved one living with Parkinson’s disease.
Two years before Robinson’s passing, Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete’s son, RJ, was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3. RJ’s twin sister, Ryan, is not autistic.
The Peetes refer to it as the “never” day. It was the day that their doctor gave them a list of all of the things that RJ would never be able to do. After RJ’s diagnosis, the foundation’s mission was expanded to include autism.
This year the Peetes will, once again, host DesignCare, a fundraiser set for Sept. 28 at a private location. The event is expected to attract 600 guests and raise $1.5 million.
This year’s honorees include Viola Davis, Michele Kong, Julian Maha, Morgan Harper Nichols, Suzanne Camille Proctor, Dr. Chantale Branson, Eric Aquino, Jason McElwain and Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr.
Davis will receive the Jacqueline Avant Humanitarian Award for her exceptional accomplishments as an actress, advocate and philanthropist. The award was established in 2023 with the approval of the Avant family.
Holly Robinson Peete recently agreed to answer some questions regarding the HollyRod Foundation and its upcoming DesignCare Gala 2024.
DD: Describe the DesignCare Gala.
HRP: The HollyRod DesignCare Gala is a heartfelt celebration that combines fashion, philanthropy and music to support families affected by autism and Parkinson’s. It’s a night of hope, creativity and generosity, where we raise crucial funds for the HollyRod Foundation.
DD: One of the goals of DesignCare Gala is to raise funds. What does the money go toward specifically?
HRP: Funds support our community outreach and program efforts that support autism communities. Families caring for a loved one on the spectrum often have to sacrifice the income of one family member. We provide wrap-around services for families, vocational training and job placement, health fairs and workshops, and our social efforts that serve the autism community.
DD: What kind of progress has been gained since you started your foundation?
HRP: Since starting the HollyRod Foundation, we’ve seen significant progress in both awareness and support for families affected by autism and Parkinson’s. When we first began, conversations around these conditions were limited, but now there’s a much greater understanding and acceptance. We’ve been able to provide direct resources like technology, therapy and guidance to help families navigate these diagnoses. We’ve also seen more inclusion in schools, workplaces and communities, which is a big win. While there’s still a long way to go, the increased awareness and access to services over the years is something I’m really proud of.
DD: Your mission is to raise awareness and provide resources to families that have a loved one who has received an autism or Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis. Has your mission been achieved?
HRP: While I believe we’ve made great strides toward achieving our mission, there’s always more work to be done. Through the HollyRod Foundation, we’ve raised awareness and provided crucial resources to families affected by autism and Parkinson’s. We’ve helped connect individuals to services, treatments and support networks, empowering them to lead fuller, more inclusive lives. But true success comes when no family feels alone and every person with autism or Parkinson’s has the access and support they need. So, while we’ve achieved a lot, we remain committed to expanding our reach and impact every day.
DD: Can you describe the moment when you found out about your father and your son? Did you immediately go into warrior mode, or fall apart?
HRP: When you love someone, you will do everything to protect them and their well-being. I immediately went into warrior mode for both my dad, who you may not know was the first Gordon on “Sesame Street.” When my dad received his diagnosis, I was attending Sarah Lawrence College in New York. I wanted to quit so I could take care of him but he was adamant that I graduate. When RJ received his diagnosis, as a mother the warrior mode may have kicked into overdrive. There wasn’t much information on the internet and all the information that is easily accessible today was not available then. Rodney and I had to figure it out. It wasn’t easy, but we did it. I always say, I wouldn’t change my son for the world, but I would change the world for my son.
DD: Are you hopeful that a cure will be found for Parkinson’s disease or autism in your lifetime?
HRP: I’m always hopeful. While a cure for Parkinson’s may take time, I believe in the progress of science and advocacy. We’ve seen advancements that improve lives and I’m optimistic about future breakthroughs. For autism, I focus on acceptance and support rather than a cure, aiming for a world where individuals with autism can thrive. I believe progress in both areas is possible, and I’ll continue fighting for it.
DD: You have referred to a “never” day — referring to the doctor’s telling you what your son would “never” do. How has RJ, and the rest of your family turned that “never” around?
HRP: We were told that he would never be able to speak, emote and tell us he loves us, have friends, employment, or live on his own. RJ has shattered all the “nevers.” He drives himself to work every day and loves his dream job as the clubhouse attendant for the L.A. Dodgers, where he is surrounded by a group of people who he absolutely loves that also love him. Every day he walks out the door he tells us that he loves us. He has an incredible sense of humor and now we can’t stop him from talking.
DD: What advice would you give a family that just found out a loved one has Parkinson’s disease or has recently been diagnosed with autism?
HRP: The first thing I would say is to take a deep breath and know that you are not alone. When our family received both the autism and Parkinson’s diagnoses, it felt overwhelming, but we found strength in connecting with others who were going through similar journeys. My advice would be to reach out for support, whether it’s through local organizations, online communities or medical professionals. Educate yourself about the condition, but also allow yourself to feel everything. It’s OK to have tough moments. Focus on the love and patience that your family needs, and remember, progress may be slow, but every step forward matters. Celebrate the victories, no matter how small. There is hope, and with the right support, you’ll find your way forward.
DD: What can the general public do to help your cause?
HRP: People can help our cause in so many meaningful ways. First, raising awareness is key. Sharing our mission and the stories of families affected by autism and Parkinson’s can create a ripple effect of understanding and support. Donations, of course, are incredibly helpful, no matter the amount. Every contribution helps us provide vital resources to families in need. Volunteering your time or attending our events like DesignCare is another great way to get involved. Most importantly, be an advocate. Speak up for inclusivity and compassion in your communities. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
DD: What are you and Rodney most proud of?
HRP: I’m most proud of how the HollyRod Foundation has provided resources and support for families affected by autism and Parkinson’s. It started from personal experience with my father’s Parkinson’s and my son’s autism, and seeing the impact we’ve made — helping families access care and changing the conversation around neurodiversity — means everything to me.
DD: What has the support of your partners meant to your organization?
HRP: Their generosity allows us to reach more families and provide life-changing resources. We are deeply grateful for their belief in our cause and their help in making a bigger impact every year.
Darlene Donloe is a freelance reporter for Wave Newspapers who covers South Los Angeles. She can be reached at ddonloe@gmail.com.
