Grantee Database
Jazz Hands for Autism
Grant Year
2026-27
Grant Program
General Operating Support
Award Amount
$10,000.00
Project Description
With support from the California Arts Council, Jazz Hands For Autism will sustain general operations of its neurodiversity-affirming music education and workforce development programs serving 42 neurodivergent students in Culver City, California. Funds will support staff salaries, facilities, and programming costs across three interconnected programs: the Jazz Hands Musicians Academy, which delivers conservatory-level music instruction to adults; the Junior Academy, which builds foundational performance skills in youth ages 8-17; and the Jazz Hands Jobs Program, which places trained musicians in paid performance, teaching, and music technology careers. Training culminates biannually in the Jazz Hands Concert Series, a professional showcase connecting neurodivergent musicians with music industry leaders. JHFA’s student body is 77% BIPOC, 78% adults ages 18-64, drawn from 7 of 8 LA County Service Planning Areas and Orange County.
Organization Summary
Jazz Hands For Autism (JHFA) is an award-winning 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of youth and adults on the autism spectrum through music education, vocational training, and employment. We use music as a tool and a pathway—bridging the gap between artistic passion and sustainable careers in the creative economy. Our innovative, tech-enabled programs are designed to foster inclusion, build confidence, and equip participants with the social, emotional, and professional skills needed to thrive in music-related fields.
Our Programs Include:
Jazz Hands Concert Series: A semiannual, public performance series that showcases the talents of neurodivergent musicians of all ages and abilities. These high-impact events offer artists exposure to industry professionals and potential clients, while also shifting public perceptions around disability and talent.
Jazz Hands Junior Academy: A music education program for children ages 8–17 on the autism spectrum, combining one-on-one instrument instruction (guitar or piano) with music-based social skills training, all delivered in a neurodiversity-affirming environments.
Jazz Hands Musicians Academy Conservatory: A post-secondary, individualized music and job training program serving adults with autism. Students receive 14–19 hours of instruction weekly, with curriculum tracks in performance, music technology, music teaching and more. Our holistic model builds both artistic excellence and workplace readiness.
Jazz Hands Jobs Program: This workforce development initiative offers job placement support, resume and interview prep, career mentorship, and on-the-job coaching. Our dedicated job developers work with students to secure paid roles—including teaching, live performance, sync licensing, and music tech—while partnering with inclusive employers across the region.
Since its founding in 2014, JHFA has served over 200 neurodivergent musicians, facilitated 200+ job opportunities, and helped participants earn over $50,000. With growing demand and global reach, JHFA is poised to scale its impact towards our vision of a world where individuals of all abilities can pursue fulfilling, creative careers.
Organization
Jazz Hands for Autism
Address
10220 Culver Blvd ste 101
Culver City
90232-3450
County
Los Angeles
Region
South – Los Angeles & Orange
Website
Congressional District
37
State Assembly District
54
State Senate District
30
