Faith Evans, the Grammy-winning singer famous for hits like Faith, has turned her focus from music to advocacy, championing support and resources for autistic children. Her 18-year-old son, Ryder Russaw, is on the autism spectrum, inspiring Evans to help other families navigate challenges she once faced.
“I met a parent just before we even had a diagnosis, and she was like ‘Well, have you had an IEP yet?’,” Evans recalled. “And I hadn’t.” That encounter set her on a path to founding Ryder’s Room Inc., an organization dedicated to providing families of autistic children with tools, guidance, and support.
The nonprofit will host its inaugural Ryder’s Room Gala on September 27 at The Newark Museum of Art. Several of Evans’ friends and collaborators in the entertainment industry will participate, including rapper MC Lyte, comedian and actor Mike Epps, R&B singer Christopher Williams, hip-hop artist and producer Redman, Broadway performer Avery Wilson, rapper and songwriter Freeway, and hip-hop artist Lil’ Cease.
Evans highlights the importance of community for parents of autistic children. “You feel like you’re alone in a lot of those moments because there’s some moments I’ve had where it’s like, ‘Oh my God.’ But then I gotta just keep it moving,” she said. Her son Ryder, she adds, embodies a resilient and energetic teen spirit. “He has that pubescent energy and he knows what he likes. He likes thick women,” she laughed.
Though Evans has stepped back from her music career in recent years, she remains grateful for her loyal fan base, which has supported her since her 1995 debut album. “My new normal is that God has another assignment for me. That doesn’t mean that I don’t see the blessing and having a fan base and having a gift that has touched people in many different ways,” she said. “However, you know, my assignment is to be there for my son and what he needs. I am his number one advocate.”
Faith Evans’ advocacy underscores her commitment to making a difference beyond the stage, using her platform and experience to provide guidance, encouragement, and hope for families raising children on the autism spectrum.
