Therapeutic Music for Children and Young Adults Facing Autism

The Center for Music and Wellness provides accessible, live therapeutic music programs designed for individuals facing barriers to supportive services, including those living with disabilities, neurodevelopmental differences, and social isolation. Through interactive musical experiences led by professional musicians trained in inclusive engagement practices, participants experience connection, joy, and emotional support in a safe and welcoming environment.

Families of neurodivergent children often struggle to find inclusive arts experiences designed for their unique sensory and communication needs.

Our Mindful Melodies program creates sensory-friendly musical performances for children and young adults facing autism and neurodevelopmental differences. Professional musicians receive training from Board Certified Behavior Analysts to present inclusive, accessible performances that encourage participation through movement, rhythm, singing, and interactive music-making.

Funding will:

1. Provide 8 sensory-friendly concerts at 2 school partner sites located in Tustin and Ontario, California (4 concerts at each school scheduled throughout the year)
2. Support program coordination and accessibility adaptations

Impact:
1. Reach 280 students with developmental disabilities
2. Foster confidence, engagement, and joyful participation
3. 95%+ participant engagement and approval rating from students and faculty requesting more concerts.

$75 supports adaptive materials for one concert
$300 helps fund an inclusive performance
$1,200 sponsors a full sensory-friendly concert