We needed something rebellious and electrifying to address the misperception that individuals with autism shun the spotlight and actively avoid crowds. And we found the answer in Rock n’ Roll.

CHALLENGE

The Public Health Agency of Canada estimates that one in every 66 children has autism spectrum disorder. As a neurological disorder that impacts brain function, autism causes impairment in both communication skills and social interactions, often combined with repetitive behaviors and restricted interests or activities.

To provide much-needed emotional support for those on the autism spectrum and their families, Jake’s House was born. A Canadian grassroots charity, Jake’s House plays a vital role in driving inclusion through community events and empowering youth to reach their full potential.

Jake’s House saw an opportunity to erase the correlation between autism and isolation, and an urgent business need to raise the profile of Jake’s House and therefore bolster donation efforts so the charity could continue its important work to support families. To be successful, we needed to find an innovative way to drive engagement and inspire donations– and break through the noise and eliminate misconceptions about those on the autism spectrum. 

INSIGHT

A 2018 study by the National Autistic Society showed that those on the spectrum were four times more likely to feel isolated and lonely as compared to the general population. During the pandemic, this statistic jumped to seven times more likely to be chronically lonely.

Sadly, society believes those on the spectrum prefer living a solitary existence, a problem perpetuated by pop culture which reinforces the idea that those affected by autism are loners who keep to themselves and have difficulty interacting with others.

IDEA

Jake’s House presents ASD (named for autism spectrum disorder), a supergroup featuring five talented autistic individuals who joined forces to prove to the world that those on the spectrum can accomplish amazing things.

“I love this cover of “Follow You” from
ASD…such a great and inspiring performance that I just had to share.”

– Daniel Platzman, drummer for the Imagine Dragons