The holiday season is here, and everywhere you look, there’s a sense of joy and celebration—especially at Autism Peer 1 on 1.
Our inclusive music band had the privilege of performing at an event hosted by Friends of Families in Cypress, where toys, diapers, and food were distributed to families in Greater Anaheim. Positioned near Santa Claus, our band played uplifting holiday music as families drove through to collect their gifts. The performance drew significant attention, with many attendees stopping to ask,
Talented young performers who performed are part of Autism Peer 1 on 1, an inclusive organization led by high school students with a mission to “Build an Inclusive Future.” At Autism Peer 1 on 1, we empower individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by fostering meaningful connections and creating supportive environments for growth. Through peer-led initiatives, we promote social integration, enhance communication skills, and raise awareness about autism. Our ultimate goal is to create spaces where individuals with ASD thrive, while fostering greater understanding and collaboration between neurotypical (NT) and neurodiverse (ND) youth.
Who We Are
As a student-led organization, we operate eight branches supported by over 35 dedicated peer leaders, each volunteering at least one hour per week. Beyond this, more than 150 high school volunteers from Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, and the Bay Area contribute their time and talents. Collaborations with local youth organizations have further expanded our reach, engaging over 100 additional volunteers committed to making a difference.
Empowering Through Education
Education lies at the heart of our mission. Most of our volunteers are neurotypical students new to this journey, requiring training to develop empathy, understanding, and the practical skills necessary to support neurodiverse peers. We offer guest-led workshops, peer training sessions, and educational resources that equip these volunteers to become effective allies for the autism community.
Building Connections Through Creativity
We also secure indoor spaces to host activities like dancing, singing, vocal sessions, and crafts. These structured programs provide creative outlets and safe spaces for neurodiverse individuals to build confidence and form meaningful social connections. Consistent access to these venues ensures that our programs remain impactful and enriching.
Our inclusive music band is a shining example of our commitment to inclusion. Their performance at today’s event not only brought joy but also earned recognition from the community. People took notice of how Peer 1 on 1 is transforming lives—creating opportunities for both neurodivergent and neurotypical youth to connect, grow, and thrive together.
This holiday season, we are reminded of the power of music, community, and inclusion. Autism Peer 1 on 1 continues to make a meaningful impact, spreading joy and building bridges of understanding one note at a time.