Ilitch Sports + Entertainment Honors Game Changers for Disability Pride Month

Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, in partnership with Comerica Bank, recognized four exceptional individuals as Game Changers for Disability Pride Month in July. The honorees were celebrated during a pregame reception at Comerica Park, where their contributions to their communities and respective fields were highlighted.

The Game Changers program, sponsored by Comerica Bank, acknowledges and supports individuals who have made a significant impact on local families, businesses, and communities. Each honoree receives a $1,000 donation to the charity of their choice, allowing them to further their philanthropic efforts and continue making a difference. Each honoree is highlighted with an editorial, published weekly throughout July and shared on Tigers.com/Equality.

Patrick Romzek, Executive Director of Andrew’s Place: Named for Romzek’s son Andrew, who was born with Down’s Syndrome, the Northville, Mich.-headquartered non-profit organization strives to create a more equitable society by helping people with disabilities access the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

Camille Proctor, Founder and Executive Director of The Color of Autism Foundation: The mother of a son with autism, Proctor founded the organization in 2009. The foundation is committed to educating and assisting African American families affected by ASD. Striving to empower families by helping them identify early warning signs of autism, the foundation works to improve outcomes for children on the autism spectrum in underserved communities.

Lisa Franklin, Founder and Executive Director of Warriors on Wheels of Metropolitan Detroit: Established in 2008, Warriors on Wheels (W.O.W.) advocates for the rights of people with disabilities by creating systematic change in the sectors of transportation, housing, education and civic access. W.O.W’s vision is to create an inclusive community that supports the livelihood of people with disabilities by empowering them with resources and tools for equity in areas of self-sufficiency.

Colleen Allen, President and CEO, Autism Alliance of Michigan: Founded in 2009 and based in Bingham Farms, Mich., Autism Alliance of Michigan works to raise expectations and expand opportunities for individuals and families living with autism. The non-profit organization has served more than 40,000 people across the state, a number that continues to increase every year.

These Game Changers embody the spirit of Disability Pride Month, showcasing the diverse talents and contributions of individuals within the disability community. Through their leadership, advocacy, and philanthropy, they continue to inspire positive change and create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

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