LOS ANGELES (CBS) — Around CBS2 and KCAL9, Steven Mauldin, our President and G.M, is simply known as the boss. To families dealing with a child with autism, Mauldin is known as a tireless champion and fundraiser.

He will be honored Sunday night at the Special Needs Network’s 5th annual “Evening Under the Stars” gala for his work and for raising awareness.

Autism, literally, touches Mauldin at home. His daughter Stephanie — one of his four children — has autism. Mauldin started the autism education program “Stephanie’s Day” in her honor.

Mauldin and Areva Martin (author, autism expert and founder of the Special Needs Network), were in-studio guests on the KCAL 9 News at Noon Friday to discuss his achievements and the event.

The gala is hosted by Dr. James Sears of “The Doctors.” The evening will also feature a special musical performance from Grammy-nominated Canadian R&B singer Melanie Fiona.

The gala is being held at the Wilshire Ebell Gardens (743 S. Lucerne Boulevard, Hancock Park.)

Other honorees include California Senator Curren D. Price and Terrie Williams, founder of the Stay Strong Foundation.

For more information about the gala, click on the following link: http://www.specialneedsnetwork.net/

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