Advocacy

Serving The Community

Athenna Crosby stands as a devoted activist for disability rights, driven by her brother Adrian’s diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Her personal connection to Autism sparked her commitment to volunteering starting at 12 years old with organizations such as Parents Helping Parents and the Morgan Autism Center. Engaging in charity walks, fundraising galas, and neighborhood events for over a decade, Athenna remains resolute in her mission to create a world more inclusive for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Supported by her family and community, Athenna achieved a significant milestone by successfully lobbying the city of San Jose, California, to declare April as Autism Awareness month within city lines. In 2017, she took her advocacy further by founding a local college chapter at Saint Mary’s College of California for Best Buddies. Throughout the years, Athenna’s involvement with Best Buddies has been extensive, serving as a dedicated volunteer and team leader. She has organized multiple teams for the San Francisco and Los Angeles friendship walks, showcasing her commitment to fostering meaningful connections. Her remarkable dedication and impact in the field of disability rights were recognized when she was nominated for The Bay Area’s “Champion Of The Year” in 2023. 

In recognition of her impactful advocacy, Athenna was honored with the Beauty With A Purpose Ambassadorship from competing in Miss World America 2023. This prestigious acknowledgment came after she created a compelling video highlighting her advocacy efforts. Currently serving as the BWAP ambassador, Athenna collaborates with various charity organizations across America. Her ongoing dedication echoes her commitment to making a positive impact on a broader scale, fostering awareness and inclusivity in communities nationwide.

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