Rocking for a Cause With Ava Panza

From Lemonade Stand to Rock Stage, Ava Continues Her Lifelong Autism Advocacy

Ava Panza was just 8 years old when she began fundraising for Autism New Jersey with a simple lemonade stand. Then Ava and her mom made and sold chocolate puzzle pieces.

Years later, Ava combined her passion for music with her mission, raising money with concerts through School of Rock, where she took lessons. Now 24 and music director for the school, Ava continues to organize the annual fundraising shows.

The most recent Rock for a Cause, held March 22 at Bar Anticipation in Lake Como, featured live music from three School of Rock locations, along with gift basket raffles and a 50/50 drawing. The event raised almost $5,000 for Autism New Jersey and the Search Day Program, which Ava’s sister Lizzie attends.

When Lizzie was diagnosed with autism at age 2, people reacted as if it was something really negative, Ava said. Through years of fundraising, the Panza family has worked to raise awareness and help others see autism in a more informed and positive way.

Lizzie, 22, lives at home with her parents. She is verbal and loves art and her iPad, Ava said. Being out in public can be tough for Lizzie, who left Ava’s show early with her dad. Ava says Lizzie has her own musical talents; she has perfect pitch; memorizing melodies from videos on her iPad and instantly spotting when a note is out of tune.

Ava said some of her students didn’t know what autism was before participating in the Rock for a Cause events.

We are so grateful for Ava’s hard work and incredible heart. She is a true role model for other Autism Ambassadors. Thank you, Ava and family!