Autism Services in Action
"It's Banding Together Day!"
WHO THEY ARE
Banding Together is a community-based nonprofit that provides inclusive music therapy and social programs for autistic teens and adults and individuals with other special needs. Their Jam Session program focuses on connection, communication, and self-expression through music.
Listen to the audio of this blog:
Sage's Story ... Every morning of Jam Session season starts the same way in Sage’s house.
He wakes up and asks what day it is.
When his mom answers, “It’s Banding Together Day,” they clap together.
That small ritual says everything.
For Sage, an autistic young adult, Jam Sessions aren’t just a weekly activity. They’re something to look forward to. Something that brings joy, connection, and a sense of belonging. And for his family, it’s become one of the most meaningful parts of their week.
Through support from NEXT for AUTISM, Banding Together expanded its Jam Session program, offering free, inclusive group music therapy experiences for autistic teens and adults in the greater San Diego area.
But the real impact shows up in homes like Sage’s.
THE RESULTS
With support from a NEXT for AUTISM grant, Banding Together expanded Jam Sessions to El Cajon and Chula Vista, serving:
- 92 autistic individuals and people with special needs
- Participants with diverse communication abilities, including non-speaking individuals and those with higher support needs
- Families across the greater San Diego region
Each location hosted:
- 14 group music therapy sessions,
- for a total of 28 inclusive experiences supported by professional lead mentors, trained volunteers, and guest musicians
THE IMPACT
Parents and caregivers shared powerful feedback about the impact of Jam Sessions:
- 90% rated the program a 10 out of 10 for contributing to their loved one’s quality of life
- 90% reported Jam Sessions were highly effective in supporting social skills, emotional expression, positive communication, and self-advocacy
Caregivers also completed pre- and post-assessments using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2), helping track longer-term progress.
Beyond the numbers, families shared moments that stayed with them:
- One participant moved from using a wheelchair to standing and dancing during sessions.
- Another found comfort in music after losing a parent who had been a musician.
- A nephew who rarely engaged with peers began smiling and connecting through music.
These outcomes weren’t just therapeutic; they were deeply human.
BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH MUSIC
The program also trained 148 mentors, exceeding its original goal, and partnered with local universities, high schools, and volunteer organizations to strengthen community involvement. Each session featured guest musicians, helping promote advocacy, awareness, and positive relationships between autistic individuals and the broader community.
Live videos and photos shared on social media allowed families and neighbors to witness Jam Sessions in real time expanding understanding of what inclusion can look like when it’s done well.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Community-based autism services often focus on clinical supports. Jam Sessions remind us that belonging, creativity, and connection matter just as much.
For Sage, it’s a day worth clapping about.
For families, it’s a weekly reminder that their loved ones deserve spaces where they are seen, supported, and celebrated.
And for communities, it’s proof that inclusive recreation doesn’t just change individuals, it brings people together.
Leave a Reply