The Make Waves Family Foundation
Empowers and supports youth and adults living with neurological, intellectual and physical challenges to defy expectations.
Who we are.
Make Waves Family Foundation is a culmination of work done by the Roth Family in an effort to motivate and inspire others to get involved in supporting the Autism community. Through community engagement, advocacy empowerment, and fundraising campaigns, we strive to break down the barriers faced by youth and adults with neurological disabilities. We support organizations focused on equal employment opportunities, replicable housing models, and social engagement programs to allow autistic individuals to achieve a happy, quality lifestyle. We believe that everyone has the ability to create a ripple effect, and together we can Make Waves.
How we help.
Make Waves takes a multi-tiered approach to raising money through e-commerce, direct donations, and event support. All of the money raised goes towards programs, initiatives and organizations within The Roth Family’s focus; funds support autism research and awareness, and autistic adults striving to transition to independent living and a career.
Through partnerships with like-minded brands, companies, and influencers, Make Waves offers a well-rounded opportunity for consumers to interact and make a difference within this community. Whether consumers are purchasing a supported product on the website, making a direct donation, or attending a Make Waves event, awareness and engagement follow.
The Board Room
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Kristyn Roth
President
Kristyn is the President of The Make Waves Family Foundation, and is proud to raise awareness about Autism and fight social stigmas that prevent the autism community from fulfilling their true potential. Over the years, she has hosted fundraising events nationwide that seek to educate, raise awareness, and support organizations focused on scientific development, housing and employment initiatives, and social empowerment programs.
She credits Derek for making her the best version of herself, and cannot imagine life without such a perfect brother.
Kristyn is the Chief Marketing Officer at the Autism Society of America, the largest grassroots autism organization in the United States. She is a Boston College Eagle and alumnus of the Carrol School of Management. Born and raised on the South Shore of Massachusetts, she made her way to California for year-round beach days, where she lives with her husband, Alex and her golden retriever, Mahi.
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Donna Roth
Founder & Director
Donna Roth is the Founder and Director of The Make Waves Family Foundation with her husband, Hank. A longtime philanthropist, Donna supported organizations focused on cancer research, MS support, and autism-related programs. With the Foundation, she aims to make a difference in the lives of youths and adults living with neurological disabilities, and the challenges that these families face; she will continue to support organizations that offer opportunities and independence, allowing the people of this community to fulfill their true potential.
Donna is the Founder and former CEO of Cool Gear International, a leader in hydration and housewares in the Consumer Products Industry. She was a recipient of the 2013 EY Entrepreneur of the Year in New England. Cool Gear was acquired by Igloo Products Corp in 2014 and she remained on the board of directors through 2021. In addition to Make Waves, Donna has served on The Autism Society’s Board of Directors since 2021. She is currently focusing her time on The Make Waves Family Foundation.
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Hank Roth
Founder & Treasurer
Hank founded The Make Waves Family Foundation with his wife, Donna, and aims to change lives with the organizations they seek to support. He has seen first hand what the autism community is capable of when given the proper love, opportunity, and support to achieve their goals. He hopes the Foundation will inspire a community rooted in positivity, to gain new perspectives, spread awareness, and break barriers.
Hank is the Founder and former Vice President of Cool Gear International, a worldwide leader of innovative hydration and tabletop products. He is currently a Board Member of Igloo Products Corp.
