Board Members
Meet Our Esteemed Board Members: A Team Committed to Transforming Lives and Creating a More Inclusive World for Individuals with Autism.
Johnny Taboada
Founder/CEO
Johnny Taboada brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for both the racing world and autism awareness to his role as a distinguished board member and Founder of Horses for Autism. With a dynamic background spanning horse racing, business, and advocacy, Johnny contributes invaluable insights and expertise to the organizations mission.
Johnny's journey as an advocate for autism awareness began when his son, Renzo, was diagnosed with autism. This life-altering event ignited a fierce determination within Johnny to fight for recognition, support, and resources for individuals and families affected by autism. In 2008, Johnny's horse, Autism Awareness, made an astounding statement with a monumental victory in the El Camino Real Derby at Bay Meadows, drawing attention to the cause and inspiring conversations about autism across the racing community.
Johnny is driven to create a horse-centric foundation within the George Noyes Foundation with his organization, Horses For Autism. His vision is to establish a safe haven where families touched by autism can come together, experience the joy and benefits of horses, and receive essential support and guidance.
With his profound understanding of the racing industry, business acumen, and unwavering dedication to the autism community, Johnny Taboada is a vital asset to the board of Horses for Autism. In 2022, Johnny was elected to the board of the Thoroughbred Owners of California. As a board member for the TOC, Johnny has put forth a path to grow horse racing in California along with pushing initiatives for Horses for Autism.
His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by autism continue to inspire and drive the organizations initiatives forward.
Roger Noyes
CFO
Roger Noyes, a seasoned professional, hails from San Mateo, California. From a young age, he immersed himself in the family business, joining his father George in the warehouse and logistics industry. A chance visit to Bay Meadows for a charitable event sparked Roger's fascination with horses and horse racing. Sadly, tragedy struck when his father passed away from cancer, leading Roger to redirect his path and contribute to his brother Ron's expanding warehouse enterprise.
As the business flourished, Roger his own expanded operations by establishing a warehouse in Sacramento in 1991, growing from 20,000 to an impressive 750,000 square feet. Concurrently, he ventured into racehorse ownership, marking the beginning of his profound connection to the racing world. However, life presented a new challenge when his son Nicholas was diagnosed with Autism at the tender age of two.
Motivated by their personal experience, Roger, along with his dedicated wife Laura, initiated a charity golf tournament in honor of his father, George. They wholeheartedly directed all proceeds towards the American Cancer Society and extended their support to Autism Speaks, collectively raising over $250,000. Driven by a deep-seated passion to make a difference, Roger's focus has now shifted to elevating The George Noyes Foundation to greater heights, aspiring to assist as many families as possible.
Roger firmly believes in the significance of involving the entire family in the Autism journey, recognizing the vital role siblings play in the process. His own children, JT and Sidney, actively engage with their brother Nicholas, sharing both the triumphs and challenges that accompany the diagnosis. Currently, Roger manages the family business while reigniting his affinity for horses.
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