Special Needs Network Appoints Hayley Mason as Chief of Staff and Head of Strategic Partnerships

Mason brings experience in high-visibility communications, organizational leadership, and partnership strategy to the nonprofit organization.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:21am

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A photorealistic studio still life featuring a stack of business documents, a laptop, and a pair of eyeglasses arranged elegantly on a clean, white background, symbolizing the strategic coordination and organizational leadership that Hayley Mason will bring to Special Needs Network.Hayley Mason's appointment as Chief of Staff and Head of Strategic Partnerships at Special Needs Network signals the organization's commitment to expanding its reach and impact through thoughtful leadership and cross-sector collaboration.Los Angeles Today

Special Needs Network (SNN), a leading nonprofit serving individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, has appointed Hayley Mason as Chief of Staff and Head of Strategic Partnerships, Media and Engagement. In this role, Mason will support the organization's founder and president, advance strategic initiatives, strengthen external partnerships, expand media presence, and drive the organization's continued growth and impact.

Why it matters

SNN is a prominent nonprofit working to create opportunities and advocate for individuals with disabilities and their families, particularly in underserved communities. Mason's appointment reflects the organization's commitment to expanding its reach and impact through strategic partnerships, media engagement, and organizational leadership.

The details

As Chief of Staff, Mason will work closely with the founder and president, as well as senior leadership, to manage key priorities and cross-departmental initiatives, while supporting strategic planning and execution. In her role leading Strategic Partnerships, Media and Engagement, she will focus on developing and managing relationships to strengthen SNN's media strategy, brand partnerships, and public engagement efforts. Mason will play a key role in supporting several of SNN's major initiatives, including workforce development programs, inclusive housing and community development, public policy efforts, and high-profile events.

  • Mason's appointment was announced on April 1, 2026.

The players

Hayley Mason

Hayley Mason is the new Chief of Staff and Head of Strategic Partnerships, Media and Engagement at Special Needs Network. She brings experience in high-visibility communications, organizational leadership, stakeholder engagement, and partnership strategy.

Areva Martin

Areva Martin is the Founder and President of Special Needs Network, a leading nonprofit organization serving individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities and their families.

Special Needs Network (SNN)

Special Needs Network is a nonprofit grassroots organization responding to the crisis of autism and other developmental disabilities in underserved communities. The organization recognizes the intersectionality of individuals with disabilities and that their fight for disability rights is inextricably tied to the fight for racial justice and the civil rights of all people.

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What they’re saying

“Hayley is joining Special Needs Network at an important moment in our organization's growth and expansion. Her background in partnerships, communications, and strategic coordination will help us continue building the relationships and platforms necessary to expand opportunities for the families and communities we serve.”

— Areva Martin, Founder and President of Special Needs Network

“I've long admired the work of fearless change agents, like Areva and the devoted teams at SNN, who are innovating and building intentional pathways in advocacy, services, workforce development, and community engagement. I am honored to join the organization and look forward to helping strengthen partnerships, expand awareness, and create real opportunities for individuals with disabilities and families across Southern California.”

— Hayley Mason

What’s next

SNN plans to leverage Mason's expertise in communications, partnerships, and strategic coordination to continue expanding the organization's reach and impact, particularly through its workforce development programs, inclusive housing initiatives, and public policy efforts.

The takeaway

Hayley Mason's appointment as Chief of Staff and Head of Strategic Partnerships, Media and Engagement at Special Needs Network underscores the organization's commitment to driving change and creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their families, especially in underserved communities. Her background in high-visibility communications, organizational leadership, and cross-sector collaboration will be invaluable as SNN continues to grow and innovate.