Overview
Spectrum Studios is a Kennewick-based nonprofit with a mission as creative as its setting: provide real employment, on-the-job training, and growth opportunities to young adults on the autism spectrum who have aged out of the school system. Operating out of a working professional studio at Columbia Center Blvd, Spectrum Studios is equal parts employer, community hub, and creative space, where participants don’t just learn skills in a classroom, but actually use them to run a business serving the public.
Inside Spectrum Studios lives the EMPOWER Center for Growth, a community center for ages 16 and up focused on vocational skills, social development, and life skills in a welcoming, real-world environment. EMPOWER launched recently and is actively growing, with programming and schedules posted regularly on their Facebook page.
Who It’s For
Young adults ages 16 and up on the autism spectrum, especially those who have graduated from high school and found themselves without the structure, connection, and opportunity that school once provided. Spectrum Studios specifically addresses the post-graduation gap: that jarring moment when services, routine, and community can disappear all at once.
What They Offer
EMPOWER Center for Growth
A community center housed inside Spectrum Studios for ages 16+, offering:
- Vocational Skills – hands-on training in real studio operations
- Social Skills – structured peer interaction and community connection
- Life Skills – practical day-to-day skill building in a supportive environment
Programming and schedules are updated monthly on their Facebook page — check there for current offerings.
Employment & On-the-Job Training
Participants work in a real, public-facing professional studio that offers:
- Custom shirt printing and garment digitizing
- Film processing and photo lab services
- Professional photography
- DIY photography sessions
- Photo restoration and slide digitizing
- Laser engraving and awards/trophies
- Custom web stores and promotional products
- Meeting and party room rentals
Paycheck Pizza Fridays
Every Friday at 12:30 PM, the Spectrum Studios team shares a pizza lunch, and the public is warmly invited to join. It’s one of their most community-friendly traditions: a low-pressure way to meet the team, see the studio in action, and share a meal. Just give them a heads-up by Wednesday noon with a head count.
How to Connect
830 N. Columbia Center Blvd., Suite B2, Kennewick, WA 99336
Phone: (509) 579-4278
Visit Spectrum Studios | Follow on Facebook (EMPOWER) | Follow on Instagram | Follow on TikTok | Sign Up for Their Newsletter
