Rock Out for Autism Saturday

As local charity Rock the Autism gears up for its Saturday fundraising bash at Skullcandy headquarters, the organization's founder said things have never been better for the group.

The event will start at 2 p.m and feature three bands, a few acoustic acts, DJs, a food truck and various activities.

Donations to the nonprofit, which connects autistic children with musical instruments and instruction, have grown exponentially over the last year, said founder Rocky Neidhardt.

"Things are going really good," said founder Rocky Neidhardt. "It's probably more than tripled since . We got our 501c3 status from the feds. We started a program down at the -- we provide instruments and they get to sing along -- and we've been writing songs."

Rock the Autism recently finished up its weekly winter sessions at the Boys & Girls Club, and will host spring "Super Sessions" there every Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Neidhardt said all kids, special needs or not, may participate in the sessions.

"Other kids come in with the special-needs kids--it teaches patience and tolerance."

And, oh yeah, music.