The History and Mission of the Teamsters Local 25 Autism Gala
Since 2006, the Teamsters Local 25 Autism Fund has been a driving force in raising awareness, funding research, and supporting programs that empower individuals and families affected by autism. Through the annual Teamsters Autism Gala, the Fund has donated more than $7-million to local autism programs. These include challenger leagues, residential and day schools, research at McLean Hospital, adaptive hockey programs and so much more. Our annual Gala brings together union members, civic leaders, and advocates to shine a light on autism and build a more inclusive future.
About Teamsters Local 25
Teamsters Local 25 proudly represents more than 13,000 hardworking men and women across Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire. From freight drivers to public sector workers, our members power the industries that keep our communities strong. We believe that community is not just where we live—it’s where we work, organize, and stand together. To learn more about Teamsters Local 25, please visit www.teamsterslocal25.com.
Entertainment Past and Present
The Zoo
Back for a second year for the Autism Gala, The Zoo has been entertaining crowds up and down the Northeast since 1994. Their skyrocketing popularity has been highlighted appearances on MTV, where they reached the winners platform on MTV’s Ultimate Cover Band contest. They have also performed at Fenway Park as part of the National Hockey League’s “Winter Classic.” Nobody knows how to keep a party going like front man and founding member, Randall John. He and female lead vocalist Ginger DeVito front this powerhouse of a band. A visit to The Zoo has never been so much fun.
Cindy Fitzgibbon
WCVB-TV chief meteorologist Cindy Fitzgibbon has been reporting the weather to Bostonians for the past 20 of her 25 years on air. In 2017 she won a regional Emmy award for outstanding achievement in weather broadcasting and has won an Associated Press award for “Best Weathercast.” Cindy has also made guest appearances on ABC News filling in on World News Tonight and Good Morning America. Cindy is involved with and devotes her time to organizations that promote science education, particularly young girls, including the Discovery Museum “Smart Gals” Program, the Jr. Sci-Tech Girl STEM Expo, and the Science Club for Girls and makes frequent “Weather Visits” to schools across the area to educate students about the weather.
Boston Higashi School Jazz Band
Led by students at the Boston Higashi School in Randolph, the jazz band includes a talented ensemble of students with autism that deliver captivating jazz performances. This band is known for its vibrant energy and remarkable musical skill, having wowed audiences in both Japan and Boston, recently performing at Berklee College of Music.
Joe Sax Boston
Joe Sax Boston, aka Joe Sparkes, has played at over 600 games and concerts outside TD Garden, since 2017. He has twice performed the National Anthem on the saxophone for the Boston Celtics and plays throughout the region at weddings, private events and fundraisers.
Greater Boston Firefighters Pipes and Drum Bands
Premier pipes and drums band that can be found throughout Massachusetts performing in parades, charity events and to honor firefighters in memoriam. The Teamsters Local 25 Autism Gala is one of the band’s annual charitable events they perform in.
