Prime Highlight:
- Fremont nonprofit co-founder Mizpah Brown-Rich has been honored as one of the L’Oréal Paris 2025 Women of Worth award recipients for her work supporting families affected by autism.
- Through Joshua’s Gift, she continues to raise awareness and create inclusive spaces for people with autism and developmental disabilities.
Key Facts:
- Joshua’s Gift’s main program, CODE JOSHUA, trains first responders to better understand and help people with autism during emergencies.
- As part of the Women of Worth program, Brown-Rich will receive $25,000 in funding and mentorship from L’Oréal Paris to expand her nonprofit’s initiatives.
Background:
Mizpah Brown-Rich, who co-founded the Fremont nonprofit Joshua’s Gift, has been honored nationwide as one of the L’Oréal Paris 2025 Women of Worth award recipients. The award celebrates women making meaningful contributions through nonprofit work, and Brown-Rich was chosen for her efforts to uplift families affected by autism and other developmental disabilities.
“It’s more than an award. It’s a recognition for the work that we’re doing,” said Brown-Rich. “But this honor is also for my son Joshua and for every family living with autism.”
Founded in Fremont, Joshua’s Gift works to defy the social stigma surrounding people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Its main program, CODE JOSHUA, trains first responders to recognize and safely help people with autism during emergencies. The group also hosts family outings, like Warriors games, to promote inclusion.
Many of the families supported by Joshua’s Gift come from underprivileged backgrounds. “There’s a big need for more support,” Brown-Rich said. “Joshua’s Gift helps families in the Bay Area connect and feel included.”
Now in its 20th year, the Women of Worth program highlights 10 honorees across the country, amplifying their impact through L’Oréal Paris’ global media channels, including its website and social platforms. Each honoree also receives mentorship from L’Oréal’s leadership team and a $25,000 grant to support their organization’s mission.
Brown-Rich said she plans to use the funding to strengthen CODE JOSHUA training and expand its reach. “It’s going towards what we already do,” she explained. “Providing law enforcement with specialized training helps ensure safer, more compassionate interactions with individuals on the autism spectrum.”
Reflecting on the experience, she added, “It’s truly humbling. Being part of this incredible group of visionary women provides opportunities to learn, grow, and build stronger partnerships that will continue to elevate our cause.”
Through this recognition, Brown-Rich hopes to continue shining a light on autism awareness and create a more inclusive future for families living with IDD.
