Firefly Autism is excited to announce its 2023 Luminescence Legacy Awardee. A tradition started by Jesse Ogas in 2012, the Firefly Luminescence Community Impact Awards honor those whose dedication and commitment have made a significant and lasting impact on our community.
This year’s recipient is none other than Jesse Ogas, Executive Director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Community Engagement at 9News. As former CEO of Firefly Autism, Ogas worked tirelessly for years to raise awareness and provide support for those with autism. His enthusiasm and passion for his work have been an inspiration to many in the community, making him a deserving awardee.
The Luminescence Legacy Award is intended to uplift and recognize individuals whose contributions prove their unparalleled commitment to their community. Through his hard work, Ogas has demonstrated what it means to invest yourself fully into making a difference in your community.
“When I think of this award coming full circle… I never thought in a million years of me being the recipient,” said Ogas upon hearing the news of his selection as awardee. “I did not do the work I did at Firefly to be recognized, but to leave the world a better place. I believe there was divine destiny, so to speak, because I could step in and make a difference and make a mark that allowed Firefly to survive and flourish and have an incredible state of the art facility.”
For over six years, Ogas led Firefly Autism’s mission to empower individuals with autism through evidence-based practices that support growth in communication, socialization, behavior management, independence skills, and self-advocacy. The organization continues to work hard each day to ensure that these individuals can succeed both now and later on in life.
Firefly Autism is excited for Jesse Ogas to join the ranks of past honorees who have dedicated themselves to making a real difference in the lives of those impacted by autism. By recognizing individuals like him who strive for excellence within their own communities, Firefly Autism hopes others will be inspired by his story as well.
The award will be given at Firefly Autism’s annual charity gala Laugh Yourself Blue, presented by Lifetime Windows, on April 13, 2023. This year’s event marks innovative change with a new team, mission, direction and event venue. For the first time ever, Laugh Yourself Blue will be held at the Denver Art Museum.
The evening promises to be an enriching and hilarious one as headlining comedian JR De Guzman takes the stage. In addition, the night will kick off with a beautiful social and networking hour followed by a seated dinner whereby guests can learn more about the tremendous impact of Firefly Autism’s work as well as celebrate honored awardees.