April 19, 2025 – College Park, GA — Some events shine because of who’s in the room. Others shine because of the reason everyone came together. The 1st Annual Sneaker Gala, hosted by the Jardine Spears Autism Foundation (JSAF), was both. Held at the Georgia International Convention Center, the evening stood as a shining example of what happens when love, patience, and community come together to create something truly meaningful.
At the heart of it all was a remarkable family—Ty Spears, Hilary Oliphant, and their extraordinary son, Jardine Nathaniel Spears. Together, they’ve built more than just a foundation. They’ve created a movement that is changing lives.
The Heart Behind the Foundation
Jardine’s story is one of strength, growth, and unwavering support. Diagnosed with autism at two years old, his early years were marked by therapies, learning challenges, and moments of frustration. But through it all, one thing remained constant: the fierce and gentle love of his parents.
When traditional schooling fell short during the pandemic, Ty and Hilary took matters into their own hands—advocating for their son, creating structure at home, and working hand-in-hand with his school to ensure he got what he needed to thrive. And thrive he did. Jardine not only learned to read, he blossomed socially, creatively, and emotionally. He’s now a middle schooler with big dreams: to play guitar, join the swim team, and keep exploring the world with his loved ones by his side.
It’s not just a success story—it’s a roadmap for what’s possible.
The Gala: A Night for the Community, Inspired by One Family
The Sneaker Gala brought together leaders and changemakers across Georgia to honor the autism community and the work of JSAF. From Mayor Andre Dickens and Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts, to influential educators, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and business owners—the night was filled with people who care. But at the center of it all was a boy named Jardine and the two parents who refused to give up on him.
Ty Spears is a father whose quiet strength and clear vision have shaped the mission of JSAF. Hilary Oliphant is a mother whose persistence and warmth have helped open doors for families facing the same challenges they once did. Together, they are showing what it looks like to lead with heart—and to uplift others along the way.
Honoring Courage, Commitment, and Community
The event featured powerful speakers and heartfelt moments:
Brittany Ford of Atlanta News First served as Mistress of Ceremony.
Remarks were offered by Mayor Andre Dickens, Robb Pitts, Dr. Dominique Merriweather, Erica Mitchell, Surya Green, and many others who work daily to create safe, supportive environments for students on the spectrum.
The keynote address by Dr. Anthony W. Smith, Superintendent/CEO of Clayton County Public Schools, emphasized the importance of intentional leadership and inclusive practices.
Special performances by Candice Smith and Jan Dan set the tone with beauty and soul, while Arianna Condrey offered a powerful moment of reflection.
The evening also recognized dozens of community heroes, including:
Mayors, sheriffs, and councilmembers from across Georgia
Educators, healthcare leaders, and nonprofit trailblazers
Business partners who continue to support families touched by autism
A Message to Families: You’re Not Alone
The Jardine Spears Autism Foundation is more than an organization—it’s a reflection of what’s possible when love and action walk hand-in-hand. The programs they champion—swimming, horseback riding, martial arts, music, and more—aren’t just therapeutic; they are tools for empowerment, confidence, and joy.
For any parent who feels unsure or overwhelmed, this family’s story is a light in the dark. It’s proof that progress takes time, but it’s possible. That children on the spectrum can thrive when they are supported and understood. That advocacy doesn’t have to start big—it just has to start at home. And that with enough heart, one family really can change the world.
Sneaker Gala 2025: Honorees, Contributors & Community Shoutouts
Recognizing the Many Hands and Hearts Behind the Mission
Key Honorees & Advocates
Mayor Andre Dickens – City of Atlanta
Mayor William “Bill” Craig Campbell – 57th Mayor of Atlanta, GA
Sheriff Levon Allen – Clayton County, GA
Sheriff Craig Owens – Cobb County, GA
Sheriff Ezell Brown – Newton County, GA
Chief Keith Meadows – City of South Fulton Police
Councilman Michael Julian Bond – Atlanta, Post 1 At Large
Mayor Vince Williams – Union City, GA
Councilwoman Marci Collier Overstreet – District 10
Councilwoman Eshe’ Collins – Atlanta, Post 3 At Large
Dr. Ramona Jackson Jones – Madame Chair, Douglas County
Erica Mitchell – Chair, Atlanta Public Schools
Dr. Alleka Anderson-Henry – Chairwoman, Clayton County, GA
Benjamin Straker – Chair, Clayton County Board of Education
Dr. Anthony W. Smith – Superintendent/CEO, Clayton County Public Schools
Healthcare, Education & Program Contributors
Dr. Yolanda Wimberly – SVP & Chief Health Equity Officer, Grady
Dr. Dominique Merriweather – Principal, Sutton Middle School
Surya Green – Autism Teacher, Sutton Middle School
Georgette Reynolds – Nutrition & Wellness Educator
Candice Smith – Violinist & Vocalist
Jan Dan – Vocalist
Arianna Condrey – Prayer
Brittany Ford – Mistress of Ceremony, Atlanta News First
DJ Bobby Love – Entertainment
Business & Community Leaders
Joy Rohadfox – CEO, Rohadfox Global
Mr. & Mrs. Campo – CEO & Chairman, Armor Health
Mr. & Mrs. Matalon – A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds & Monitoring
Jennifer Greene – CEO, Free At Last Bail Bonds
Michelle Taylor Willis – Publisher, SoFu Lifestyle Magazine
Reza Abree – CEO, United Consulting
Special Appreciation To
Ty Spears & Hilary Oliphant – Co-Founders, JSAF
Darryl & Kishaun – Georgia International Convention Center
CoCo Brother
Machelle Spears
Cynthia Mitchell
Regan Toomer
Tara Joyner
Event Sponsors
Deepest thanks to our generous sponsors whose partnership helped make this event possible:
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
GRADY Health System
City of Atlanta
Chick-fil-A
OCHS – Our Community Healthcare System
A 2nd Chance Bail Bonds
A Second Chance Monitoring
Free At Last Bail Bonds
Clayton County Sheriff’s Office
City of Fulton
City of College Park
Rohadfox Global Construction
Clayton County Public Schools
Armor Health
United Consulting
Cobb County Sheriff’s Office
Special Shoutouts
To the community leaders and special guests whose presence added even more light to the evening—thank you for showing up and standing beside the mission:
Dr. Dawn Samad – Community Health Leader
Jacki Labat & her husband – Influential Atlanta Advocates
Commissioner Natalie Hall – Fulton County
Mayor Pro Tem Jamelle McKenzie – City of College Park
Councilman Joe Carn – City of College Park
Councilman Roderick Gay & his beautiful wife – Community Champions
Senator Jason Esteves – Georgia State Senate
Captured with Heart
A special thank you to Mr. Patrick, owner of Urban Photos ATL, for beautifully capturing the spirit of the gala and all the people who make the mission possible.
