ST. ELLIS FOUNDATION
ABOUT US
MISSION
VISION
Our mission is to make sensory-friendly music and sound experiences accessible to everyone. Through education, advocacy, community engagement, and innovative musical resources, we create opportunities for connection, emotional well-being, focus, and inclusion. We believe music is a universal language that can support people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, and we are committed to bringing sensory-conscious music to the communities that need it most.
Our vision is a world where sensory-friendly music and sound experiences are woven into everyday life and accessible wherever people live, learn, work, heal, and connect. We envision sensory-conscious music being available in schools, hospitals, libraries, airports, public spaces, workplaces, and community centers—creating environments that promote calm, focus, emotional well-being, and inclusion. Through innovation, advocacy, and education, we aim to ensure that the benefits of music are available to people of all ages and abilities, helping build more compassionate, accessible, and connected communities.
THE WHY
The Need for Greater Access
The need for sensory-friendly resources and supportive services has never been greater. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 31 children in the United States is identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Additionally, nearly 1 in 6 children between the ages of 3 and 17 has been diagnosed with a developmental disability, including autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, and other neurological differences.
Despite these growing numbers, many families still struggle to access resources, support networks, sensory-friendly experiences, and tools that promote emotional well-being and inclusion. At the same time, schools, hospitals, libraries, workplaces, and community organizations are seeking innovative ways to better serve neurodivergent individuals and create more accessible environments.
The St. Ellis Foundation was created to help bridge this gap by expanding access to sensory-friendly music and sound experiences while connecting families with valuable resources, education, advocacy, and community support.
Empowering Families and Communities
The St. Ellis Foundation serves neurodivergent individuals and their families, including those impacted by autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, and other developmental disabilities. We support families by providing access to educational resources, community programs, advocacy initiatives, sensory-friendly experiences, and partnerships that improve quality of life.
Our goal is to ensure families feel supported, informed, and connected throughout their journey while helping communities become more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Our Story
The St. Ellis Foundation was founded by GRAMMY®-nominated recording artist and neurodiversity advocate Chris Redding and his wife Serena Redding. Inspired by Chris's experience living with ADHD and their journey raising their non-speaking autistic son, Christian Saint Ellis Redding, the foundation was built on a simple belief: music can create connection where words sometimes cannot.
This vision first came to life through Chris's groundbreaking musical projects, including Visions of Sounds and The Colors In My Mind. The Colors In My Mind became the first GRAMMY®-nominated album to feature a non-speaking autistic individual and helped bring national attention to the importance of inclusion and neurodivergent representation.
In recognition of these efforts, Chris's work was honored in the Congressional Record of the United States House of Representatives and has been recognized by healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and community leaders across the country.
Creating a More Inclusive Future Through Music
Today, the St. Ellis Foundation works to make sensory-friendly music more accessible through advocacy, education, community programming, and innovative partnerships. We envision sensory-conscious music being available in schools, hospitals, libraries, airports, public transportation systems, workplaces, and community centers—bringing the benefits of music to the places where people need it most.
As we continue to grow, our mission remains clear: to make sensory-friendly music and sound experiences accessible to everyone while empowering families with resources, education, and support. Through music, innovation, and advocacy, we are helping build a more inclusive, compassionate, and connected world.
With such prevalence, families navigating the challenges of raising a neurodivergent child often encounter significant hurdles in accessing appropriate support, understanding their child's unique needs, and finding a sense of community. As the number of autism diagnoses continues to rise, the need for an organization like ours becomes increasingly evident, providing vital acceptance, community, resources, and support for families on their journey with autism
AUTISM PARENTS MAY STRUGGLE WITH SOME OF THE FOLLOWING
Worry about the Future. Parents of autistic children often grapple with concerns about their child's long-term care and well-being, particularly as they navigate adulthood and independence.
Acceptance in Neurotypical Settings. Families frequently encounter challenges in mainstream environments, where their child may face stigma, misunderstanding, or exclusion due to their neurodivergence.
Providing Education to Family Members and Caregivers. Parents take on the role of educators, not only for their child with autism but also for extended family members, friends, and caregivers, in an effort to foster understanding, empathy, and effective support network
OUR ORGANIZATION IS COMMITTED TO ADDRESSING T
HESE CHALLENGES THROUGH VARIOUS INITIATIVES:
Community Building
We provide a supportive community where families can connect with others facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.
Networking
We facilitate networking opportunities for families to share experiences, insights, and resources, creating a network of support and collaboration.
Resource Sharing
Our platform serves as a hub for sharing valuable resources, including information on therapies, services, and advocacy tools, empowering families with the knowledge and resources they need.
Events and Meetups
We organize sensory-friendly musical experiences, workshops, performances, and community events that bring families, caregivers, educators, and community members together through the power of music. These gatherings provide opportunities to explore how sensory-conscious music can support relaxation, focus, emotional well-being, communication, and connection while creating a welcoming environment where individuals of all ages and abilities can engage, learn, and feel included.
Educational Opportunities
We offer educational workshops, webinars, and seminars to equip parents with the skills and knowledge necessary to advocate for their child, navigate systems, and access appropriate services
Support Our Cause
Your generous contribution helps us provide essential services and support for individuals with autism and their families.
Make a difference now by donating to our cause
Buenos Aries Argentina National Congress
Thank you for your love and support!
Together, we’re raising awareness and promoting autism acceptance through music.
Music has the power to bring people together, support emotional well-being, and create meaningful opportunities for connection. At the St. Ellis Foundation, we believe sensory-friendly music should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability, or background. Through innovative musical experiences, community partnerships, and educational programs, we work to expand access to music that promotes calm, focus, self-expression, and inclusion.
By bringing sensory-conscious music into schools, hospitals, libraries, public spaces, and community settings, we aim to create environments where individuals and families can thrive. Our work is rooted in the belief that music is more than entertainment—it is a tool for connection, wellness, and building more inclusive communities.
-224%20All.png)
You belong here
Join our community, share your story.