Los Angeles, CA- February 20, 2014- Autism Unites, an organization devoted to helping young adults with autism using “the art of connection” as its guiding principle, will be hosting a fundraiser for its new film production vocational training program, the Los Angeles Vocational Academy of the Arts (LAVAArts). The event, featuring a special musical performance by Robby Krieger of The Doors, will take place at a private estate in Brentwood (1060 Oakmont Drive) on February 27, 2014 at 7 p.m.
Robby Krieger has partnered with award-winning producer George Paige to help launch LAVAArts with the filming of a feature-length documentary, Topanga, on the music and culture of Topanga Canyon. The film chronicles the lives and events of Topanga Canyon musicians from the 1960s through the 1980s. “It’s a music-fueled inside story about this mystical mountain retreat,” states the film’s producer, George Paige. “Most importantly, it is an opportunity to bring young people with autism in on the film through LAVAArts, helping them make real connections and learn about the industry by matching them up with our production team and crew members.”
According to current research, individuals with autism spectrum disorders have the highest rate of unemployment of any disability, even though they have many strengths and exceptional creativity to offer. Autism Unites developed its new social integration model to address this issue for adults with autism and help them achieve a higher quality of life filled with friends, meaningful employment, and the ability to become important members of their communities.
In addition to an exclusive experience with The Doors’ legendary rocker, attendees at the private home fundraiser will enjoy performances by master percussionist and oud player Hani Naser, Fame’s Lee Curreri, and musical savant Rex Lewis, who recently performed at the home of Vice President Biden. Donors who contribute $500 or more at the event will receive a thank you credit on the documentary film, Topanga. Die-hard Doors fans also have the opportunity to bid on a jam session with Robby Krieger and Hani Naser. Items in the Live and Silent Auctions include Krieger’s own artwork and a guitar and drumheads signed by the artists. Tickets are available at: www.autismspectrumintegratedservices.com
Autism Unites, also known as Autism Spectrum Integrated Services (ASIS), is a subsidiary of the non-profit 501(c)(3) Dance Into Unity, Inc. Its mission is to help young adults with autism integrate into their communities and the workplace using a unique social and vocational integrative model called Match-A-Friend. Young adults in the program are matched with industry professionals trained by the organization to provide them with advocacy information, social skills support, and on-the-job employment experience.
