A Transformative Career Development Program in the Entertainment Industry
The Festival Project is Yes I Can's flagship program, established in 2004 to empower adults with disabilities through hands-on work experience in the entertainment industry. This innovative program culminates in the production of the annual Good Karma Music & Arts Festival, providing students with real-world professional skills and industry connections.
Program Overview
The Festival Project offers a comprehensive, year-long training experience where participants:
Receive specialized production role-based training (up to 5 hours weekly)
Engage in hands-on, project-based learning in community workplace settings (up to 10 hours weekly)
Work directly alongside industry professionals
Develop career-specific skills in various entertainment production roles
Build professional portfolios and industry connections
Gain qualifying experience for industry internships and entry-level positions
By the conclusion of the program, participants obtain one full year of relevant work experience in their chosen entertainment career path, opening doors to future employment opportunities and professional growth.
Training Structure
Production Role-Based Training
Students receive structured training that provides:
Clear understanding of various production roles and responsibilities
Insight into department interconnections and workplace communications
Guidance for making informed career choices in the entertainment industry
Development of essential workplace communication skills
Support for social inclusion in professional environments
Hands-On Project Experience
The program's practical component involves:
Direct application of skills in a real production environment
Mentorship from elite industry professionals, including promoters, artists, publicists, managers, booking agents, photographers, security personnel, and more
Participation in all phases of producing a major live music event
Opportunities to showcase talents directly to potential employers
Development of professional materials (resumes, portfolios, reels) for future job applications
The Good Karma Music & Arts Festival
The culmination of the Festival Project is the annual Good Karma Music & Arts Festival, held in Santa Clarita, CA. Previously known as the Summer Meltdown Autism Awareness Art & Music Festival (2004 - 2016), this event was rebranded and successfully launched its first edition on November 4, 2023, with the next festival planned for November 2026.
Festival Highlights
Multiple performance stages featuring renowned artists (past performers include Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Xzibit, Matisyahu, The Dirty Heads, Hirie, Iration, Too $hort, and many more!)
Live art demonstrations
Beer and wine garden
Diverse food offerings
Local vendor marketplace
Entirely produced by Festival Project participants with industry mentorship
Dual-Purpose
What makes the Good Karma Music & Arts Festival truly unique is its dual mission:
To provide Southern California residents with an exceptional festival experience
To celebrate workplace diversity while showcasing the abilities and talents of participants to potential employers
The festival stands apart from typical music events as it is organized and produced by students with disabilities who work at the management and production level of the entire operation, demonstrating their capabilities in a professional setting.
Program Impact
The Festival Project delivers significant outcomes for participants:
Qualifies students for industry internships and entry-level positions
Builds valuable professional networks
Develops career-specific technical skills
Enhances workplace communication abilities
Provides authentic resume-building experiences
Fosters confidence and independence
Creates pathways to employment in competitive industries
Support and Recognition
The Festival Project has received recognition for its innovative approach, including being awarded a grant through the 2022 DDS Employment Grant. The program is made possible through the generosity of corporate sponsors and donors who believe in creating inclusive career opportunities in the entertainment industry. Click here for more information on sponsorships and partnerships.
Looking Forward
With the next Festival Project cycle beginning in November 2025 and culminating with the Good Karma Music & Arts Festival in November 2026, Yes I Can continues its commitment to creating transformative professional experiences for adults with disabilities while producing an exceptional community event. Interested in being a part of the Festival Project? Contact your Regional Center CSC or get in touch with us directly.
