In May 2022, the Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG), a nonprofit focused on improving the lives of teens and adults on the autism spectrum through education, support, and social activities, proudly established the Autism In Entertainment (AIE) Workgroup, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in the entertainment industry. Thanks to generous funding from the California Department of Development Services, we successfully hosted our first Autism In Entertainment Conference in April 2024. The Conference was a resounding success, attracting 423 attendees, 85 companies, and 20 educational partners. This event not only created more than 40 employment opportunities for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) but also shifted the perception of businesses regarding the hiring of autistic talent and fostered a vibrant community of work-ready individuals.

Since then, AIE has expanded its outreach to nearly 2,000 individuals. We also formed a neurodivergent film crew led by the talented Paul Hemstreet, a producer and former executive at Warner Bros., which has produced eight documentaries, some of which have been recognized at prominent film festivals.

Our commitment to continuous learning shines through our monthly webinars, where industry experts share invaluable insights in filmmaking, acting, animation, game design, and more, empowering our members to navigate and thrive in their careers. In 2025, we proudly unveiled the AIE Creator Community, a groundbreaking initiative that not only connects creative neurodiverse individuals but empowers them to take the reins of their storytelling journeys through engaging quarterly meetings—both in-person and virtual. Alongside this, we established our Industry Advisory Board, featuring visionary leaders who are dedicated to steering Autism in Entertainment toward a future rich with inclusive practices and innovative ideas.