Brian Dietzen to lead Inclusion Matters fundraiser in Griffith Park

Brian Dietzen and ABC7’s Josh Haskell are set to headline Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration’s 29th annual Once Upon a Run, Walk & Roll on Sept. 27 in Los Angeles. The event raises money for inclusive playgrounds and free programs that help children of all abilities play and learn together.

Why it matters: - The fundraiser supports inclusive playgrounds and free community programs that bring children with and without disabilities together through play. - Funds help Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration expand outreach and education for families, schools and community groups. - The event is the organization’s largest peer-to-peer fundraiser.

What happened: - Brian Dietzen, best known for his role as Dr. Jimmy Palmer on NCIS, will serve as Grand Marshal for Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration’s 29th annual Once Upon a Run, Walk & Roll. - The event takes place Sunday, Sept. 27, at Shane’s Inspiration Playground in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. - ABC7 Eyewitness News reporter Josh Haskell will return as emcee of the opening ceremony. - Wells Fargo is presenting the fundraiser.

The details: - The event will bring together hundreds of children of all abilities, along with families, friends, corporate teams and community supporters. - Participants will take part in a 4K Run, Walk & Roll through Griffith Park. - The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks partners with Inclusion Matters to host the family-friendly event. - The morning will include an Interactive Exhibition Fair, special guests, a free raffle, refreshments, event T-shirts, goodie bags and inclusive buddies. - Registration and the Exhibition Fair open at 7:00 AM. - The Opening Ceremony and warm-up begin at 8:00 AM. - The 4K Run, Walk & Roll starts at 8:30 AM. - The Exhibition Fair runs until the event ends at 11:00 AM. - Registration is free. - Participants are encouraged to create fundraising pages and ask friends, family and colleagues to support the mission. - Sign up, start a team or make a donation at more information. - Marci Moran is the media contact for Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration at +1 818-988-5676. - The release also lists the organization’s social channels on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Between the lines: - Dietzen’s return as Grand Marshal signals the event’s effort to use recognizable supporters to boost turnout and fundraising. - Haskell’s role on the opening stage suggests the organization is leaning on local media visibility to widen community reach. - Free registration lowers the barrier to entry and may help the event draw more participants and donations.

What’s next: - Organizers will hold the fundraiser on Sept. 27 at Shane’s Inspiration Playground. - Supporters can continue to register, form teams and donate ahead of the event. - The morning program will culminate with the 4K Run, Walk & Roll and the closing of the Exhibition Fair by 11:00 AM.