Rock the Runway Fundraiser to Support Hearts for Autism

Nearly 70 tables already claimed for April 11 event benefiting summer camp program

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:00am

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A fundraiser called Rock the Runway is set to take place on April 11 at the Las Cruces Convention Center, with proceeds going to support Hearts for Autism and its Camp Amigos summer program for children on the autism spectrum. The event has already exceeded expectations, with nearly 70 tables already claimed even before formal advertising had begun. The fundraiser was organized by Jeffrey Silva, whose son Zane was born prematurely and is now on the autism spectrum, and Abel Covarrubias, co-founder of Hearts for Autism.

Why it matters

The Rock the Runway fundraiser is significant because it will help sustain the Camp Amigos program, which provides structured activities and social opportunities for around 40 children with autism each summer. The event also highlights the personal connection of the organizers to the cause, as Jeffrey Silva's son Zane is on the autism spectrum, and the broader community support for the initiative.

The details

Rock the Runway will feature local leaders walking the runway instead of traditional models, as well as informational segments about autism, video stories from local families, an on-stage interview with Zane Silva, and a halftime performance by Azteca dancers from El Paso. VIP tables are priced at $2,000 and include access to a pre-event reception, while standard tables are available for $1,000 along with a limited number of individual seats.

  • The event is scheduled for April 11, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
  • Ticket sales have already exceeded expectations, with nearly 70 tables claimed even before formal advertising had begun.

The players

Jeffrey Silva

The organizer of Rock the Runway, whose son Zane was born prematurely and is now on the autism spectrum.

Zane Silva

Jeffrey Silva's 18-year-old son, who is on the autism spectrum and will be featured in an on-stage interview at the event.

Abel Covarrubias

The co-founder of Hearts for Autism and chair of the nonprofit's board of directors, who partnered with Jeffrey Silva to create Rock the Runway.

Hearts for Autism

A nonprofit organization that operates the Camp Amigos summer program for children on the autism spectrum.

Camp Amigos

A summer day camp held in partnership with New Mexico State University that provides structured activities and social opportunities for children on the autism spectrum.

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What they’re saying

“I got down on my knees and asked God to save Zane's life. I said I would do anything to help our community if he would just save his life.”

— Jeffrey Silva

“As time went on, we realized he was on the spectrum. There are different levels, and I'm not a doctor, but I can tell you he's level 1.”

— Jeffrey Silva

“It's an opportunity for children with autism to come together, socialize with their peers and build friendships.”

— Abel Covarrubias, Co-founder of Hearts for Autism

“With the funds raised, we will be able to secure Camp Amigos for the next two years. One hundred percent of those funds will go toward bringing together 40 children each year to experience the camp.”

— Abel Covarrubias, Co-founder of Hearts for Autism

“It means everything. It shows this community is coming together for a good cause. I've had people tell me, 'If Zane is behind this cause, we're behind it with him.' As a parent, that makes me feel good.”

— Jeffrey Silva

What’s next

Tickets for Rock the Runway are available online through the Las Cruces Convention Center website, and organizers say the event is on pace to sell out weeks before showtime.

The takeaway

The Rock the Runway fundraiser demonstrates the power of community support and personal connections in driving initiatives that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with autism and their families. By securing funding for the Camp Amigos program, this event will ensure that more children on the autism spectrum have access to enriching summer experiences and opportunities to build social connections.