Jazz Hands for Autism

Jazz Hands for Autism is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to using music as a platform for advocacy, education, and employment opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum. Founded in 2014, the organization aims to empower neurodivergent creatives, break stigmas, and foster pathways to inclusion through musical expression and education in the entertainment industry and beyond.

Mission

The mission of Jazz Hands for Autism is to leverage music to create avenues for self-expression and employment for individuals on the autism spectrum. The organization recognizes that approximately 1 in 36 Americans and up to 3% of the global population are on the autism spectrum, and that a significant percentage—over 85%—of these individuals are unemployed or underemployed.

Programs

Jazz Hands for Autism offers a variety of programs tailored to support individuals with autism in gaining musical skills and accessing career opportunities in the music industry.

• Jazz Hands Musicians Academy: This comprehensive music education and vocational program provides group and individualized social, professional, and musical training for adults on the autism spectrum (ages 18+). Participants specialize in a primary instrument and select from career tracks including on-stage performance, songwriting/composition, music technology, music business, or music pedagogy. The program also includes individualized career coaching and job placement assistance.

• Jazz Hands Jobs Program: Offers music-related job and internship scouting and placement, including internships, mentorships, apprenticeships, studio session opportunities, and more for current and past students of the Musicians Academy.

• Jazz Hands Junior Academy: A 12-week private music lesson program designed for school-aged individuals on the autism spectrum (ages 8-17). Lessons are individualized and taught in-home, in-studio, or via Zoom by Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) trained music teachers.

• Jazz Hands Concert Series: A bi-annual festival where musicians on the autism spectrum can showcase their talents across various genres and skill levels in front of a supportive audience.

• Jazz Hands Jam Sessions: Regular group sessions at the Educational Studio in Culver City, where musicians collaborate on vocal and instrumental pieces to prepare for performances and build confidence.

Impact

The organization has been successful in opening career doors for its students, with alumni teaching music classes in local schools, performing for notable figures, and participating in major music venues. An additional initiative includes the establishment of the first music library featuring compositions exclusively by neurodivergent composers, singers, and producers, aiming to place music in film, television, and advertising as a source of income for these musicians.

Funding and Support

Jazz Hands for Autism receives funding through its role as a vendor for the California Regional Center system, which compensates for direct services like music training classes and career coaching sessions. However, the organization also relies on grants for initiatives such as curriculum development and expanding its services. The organization is supported by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Department of Arts and Culture, and it benefits from partnerships with various entities to further its mission.

Governance

The organization is led by a board of directors that includes diverse professionals committed to supporting its mission and operations. Despite its focus on community engagement and talent advocacy, the board composition and operational practices have areas for improvement, such as formal orientations for new board members and assessments of the chief executive's performance.