For Zane Allen, music has become much more than a hobby. It has become a source of confidence, self-expression, and joy, offering the 9-year-old a chance to display his talents.
Zane, who has autism, benefits from the support of Shannon Bennett, his Care Coordinator at Person Centered Services. Through her efforts, Zane was recently enrolled in waiver services through the New York Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and established a self-directed budget tailored to his unique interests and goals.
Over the past year, Zane has worked with an instructor at his local School of Rock to develop his skills behind the drum kit and explore his passion for music.
“I like playing the drums. It’s much cooler than a guitar,” Zane said.
A fan of hip-hop music, Zane especially enjoys drumming with his hi-hat. His dedication and practice have paid off. Recently, he performed before a live audience, playing classics including “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes and “Tutti-Frutti” by Little Richard.
For Zane’s mother, Jessica, the journey to accessing programs and services that empower her son could have felt overwhelming without support.
“The beginning of the process for getting services is a lot,” Jessica said. “I don’t know how people navigate the system without someone holding their hand through the whole thing. Every time I reach out to Shannon, she is really responsive.”
Jessica says Shannon has been a trusted resource not only for Zane, but also for his brother, whom Shannon supports as well.
“Any time we are having a hard time with others, I just reach out to Shannon and she makes sure she is taking care of these guys,” Jessica said.
As a Care Coordinator, Shannon has had the opportunity to watch Zane’s progress from the very beginning.
“One of the greatest parts of my job is watching children thrive when they receive the supports they need,” Shannon said. “Zane has been able to pursue opportunities that truly match what brings him joy. What started as an interest has grown into something that builds confidence, encourages self-expression, and gives him a place to shine.”
Self-Direction has also helped the family access opportunities and experiences that enrich Zane’s life, including mileage reimbursement for family trips, camping adventures at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, and even travel assistance for special vacations, including a trip to Disney.
Zane has also participated in programs through AutismUp and enjoys staying active through basketball and soccer activities on the weekends. When he’s not playing sports or practicing drums, he can often be found enjoying games on his iPad.
“It’s amazing watching Zane and his brother grow,” Shannon said. “Jessica is so easy to communicate with, and every time I see the kids, they’re great to work with.”
For Shannon, stories like Zane’s demonstrate the true value of Care Coordination.
“Care Coordination is about creating opportunities, fostering independence, and helping people build meaningful, fulfilling lives centered around their own goals and passions,” she said. “Watching Zane grow in confidence while doing something he truly loves has been an incredible privilege, and it’s exactly why this work matters.”
View a clip of Zane performing “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes on the drums:
