News, background and media contacts for Chefs on the Spectrum, a workforce initiative of Autism Speaks.
Media Inquiries
For professional media inquiries, contact media@autismspeaks.org.
Quick facts
- Only 1 in 5 people with disabilities, including autism, are currently employed
- Founded by Autism Speaks in partnership with Chef Franklin Becker
- Guided by a Chefs Council of more than 20 chefs and hospitality leaders
- Publicly announced September 2026; currently in early-stage development
- Made possible by the André Soltner Philanthropic Trust
"Hospitality has always been about people — welcoming them, supporting them, and helping them grow. Through Chefs on the Spectrum, we're reimagining how kitchens can open doors, build confidence, and create meaningful career opportunities for autistic adults." -Chef Franklin Becker
"Professional kitchens can be hard places to break into, especially for autistic people who may not always get the chance to show what they can do. Food has given me a platform to connect with others, share my passion and build confidence, and I want more autistic people to have that same opportunity." -Chef Joe Valentino
Interview opportunities
Spokespeople are available to discuss autism and employment, careers in professional kitchens and the broader culinary field, and how restaurants can recruit, hire and support autistic team members.
- Chef Franklin Becker — National Board Member, Autism Speaks; Executive Chef and Owner, Point Seven
- Chef Joseph Valentino — Chefs Council Member, Chefs on the Spectrum; Chef, Point Seven; autistic self-advocate
- Members of the Chefs on the Spectrum Chefs Council
- Autism Speaks leadership *Interview requests are subject to availability.
Partnership & employer inquiries
Restaurants, chefs and culinary organizations interested in joining Chefs on the Spectrum can contact chefsonthespectrum@autismspeaks.org.
Media kit
Photography and video b-roll are available for editorial use.
About Autism Speaks
In partnership with autistic people, Autism Speaks works to create an inclusive world and redefine possible for people with autism across their lifespan. As the largest autism organization in the U.S., Autism Speaks has spent more than two decades driving research, expanding services, and shaping policy to improve quality of life. Each year, the organization connects millions of autistic people and their families to free resources, advocacy and support, while working across sectors to advance disability inclusion and opportunity. Learn more at AutismSpeaks.org and follow @AutismSpeaks on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
