Social Impact Heroes: Why & How Jacqueline Diaz of The Steven Spectrum Career Project Is Helping To Change Our World
The road will be tougher than you expect, but it’s worth it: There were moments when I felt like giving up. When the challenges seemed too overwhelming and progress was slow. Starting and running a nonprofit isn’t easy, and the setbacks can feel defeating. But looking back, I see how far we’ve come. The journey is difficult, but it’s filled with purpose, and every challenge is a lesson in growth.
As part of my series about “individuals and organizations making an important social impact”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jacqueline Diaz of The Steven Spectrum Career Project. Jacqueline Diaz is dedicated to opening doors for others. As the co-owner of Strategic Talent Acquisition: A Recruiting Firm, she helps employers find top talent nationwide, and as the founder of The Steven Spectrum Career Project, she provides workforce development for neurodivergent individuals in NYC. A three-time bestselling co-author and the author of a touching children’s book about autism and music therapy, she is a passionate advocate for mental health and neurodiversity. Her work is changing lives, and she’s just getting started.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
Having been late diagnosed neurodivergent, I faced my own challenges in corporate leadership, dealing with ADHD and OCD along the way. But the moment that truly shifted my path came when my nephew, Steven, who is autistic and in his mid-20s, asked me to help him find a job. As the owner of a recruiting agency, I thought it would be simple, but I quickly realized how hard it was to find resources that could truly support him. Every agency I reached out to had waiting lists, and I was left feeling frustrated and helpless. That’s when I decided to do something about it, The Steven Spectrum Career Project was born. It’s all about providing the support I couldn’t find for my nephew, and helping others like him navigate the workforce with the right tools and opportunities.
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
Oh, this one still makes me chuckle…though it wasn’t funny at the time! When I was anxiously waiting for my 501(c)(3) status, I got a call from an “agency” who promised to speed up the process for a cool $700. Now, I had already done all the paperwork with a lawyer, but I was so desperate for things to move faster that I didn’t think twice before handing over the money. Then, they hit me with another “fee” claiming it was required by New York State. That’s when the lightbulb went off, and I decided to double-check with the IRS website… and guess what? I had been approved two weeks earlier, and I just hadn’t received the notice yet. If only I had checked a week prior, I wouldn’t have been out $700! The lesson here is simple: trust your gut and don’t let your impatience rush you into making decisions. It’s a reminder that sometimes slowing down and doing the basics (like checking your facts) can save you from a big mistake.
Can you describe how you or your organization is making a significant social impact?
At The Steven Spectrum Career Project, we’re not just aiming at opening doors, we’re helping people step through them with confidence. Our mission is to provide workforce development for neurodivergent individuals who are often overlooked or misunderstood. By creating tailored opportunities and offering the right support, we’re helping them find meaningful work that doesn’t just fill a job, but enriches their lives.
This isn’t just about employment; it’s about dignity, independence, and community. When you support us, you’re helping change the narrative for individuals like my nephew Steven, who deserves the same chances to succeed as anyone else.
Can you tell us a story about a particular individual who was impacted or helped by your cause?
A parent came to us one day, deeply worried about her son, a bright young man who just couldn’t seem to find his place in the world. He felt like a failure after so many unsuccessful interviews, and the fear of rejection weighed heavily on him. When we assessed his situation, we realized something important; he struggled with social cues and couldn’t make eye contact, something many employers expect without realizing how it might affect someone neurodivergent.
Employers often look for that “confidence” in a firm handshake or eye contact, not knowing that for some, these things don’t come naturally. We connected him to a program that focuses on a hands-on approach, where those unspoken rules don’t matter. Although he loved the program, he ultimately decided it wasn’t for him because it started at 5:30 AM, which didn’t fit with his lifestyle.
But through a few one-on-one virtual sessions, we helped him understand the expectations of a neurotypical workplace (things like reading body language and how to present yourself, which gave him a newfound confidence. More importantly, he realized that there was nothing “wrong” with him) he was simply wired differently, and that was perfectly okay. He was overjoyed with that realization, knowing that his unique qualities could still take him far in the world.
This story, though just one of many, is why we do what we do. It’s about helping people see their potential, not their limitations, and showing the world that talent comes in all forms.
Are there three things the community/society/politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
To make a real, lasting change, there are some crucial steps the community, society, and politicians can take to help us address the root of the problem:
Create more accessible, neurodivergent-friendly workplaces: Employers must understand that neurodivergent individuals offer incredible value. By fostering flexible work environments and training HR and leadership to recognize these talents, we can ensure these individuals aren’t overlooked.
Fund and support existing organizations: It’s crucial to provide funding for the organizations already doing the hard work. By investing in these programs, we can help them expand their impact, improve services, and reach more people who need support.
Additionally, raising awareness and reducing stigma is key. Society and politicians have the power to shift the narrative, ensuring that neurodivergent individuals are seen for their strengths, not their differences. Together, these steps will help create a more inclusive, equitable world where everyone has the chance to thrive.
How do you define “Leadership”? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?
To me, leadership is about empowering others and putting their needs first. It’s not about having all the answers but about listening, learning, and helping people grow.
As a servant leader, I live this out through The Steven Spectrum Career Project by focusing on the neurodivergent community. I didn’t just create an organization; I worked alongside individuals like my nephew, Steven, helping them find meaningful work despite the obstalces they face. It’s about serving with heart and helping others unlock their potential.
I’m also deeply grateful for the wonderful volunteers who keep our organization going. Their dedication and passion make everything we do possible, and together, we’re creating real change in the lives of those who need it most.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why. Please share a story or example for each.
1 . Funding is harder to secure than you think: I thought that once I had the idea and the mission, the money would just follow. But it’s a constant struggle. You have to get creative. You have to apply for grants, build relationships, and learn how to pitch your cause in a way that resonates with potential donors. Even small donations make a huge difference when they come from people who truly believe in your cause.
2 . Not everyone will believe in your cause: Starting The Steven Spectrum Career Project was personal to me. But not everyone understood my mission, and I had to learn that’s okay. There were times I felt discouraged when people didn’t see the need for workforce development for neurodivergent individuals. What kept me going was remembering that I wasn’t doing it for everyone; I was doing it for the people who needed it most, like my nephew, Steven.
3 . A nonprofit isn’t just about passion — it’s a business too: I went in thinking that passion alone would carry me. But running a nonprofit requires a strong business foundation. Managing finances, complying with legal regulations, and navigating the administrative side can feel overwhelming. The reality hit hard when I realized there was no “off” button. You’re always thinking about the next step, the next strategy, and how to make everything work. But passion fuels the work, and the business side keeps it sustainable.
4 . You’ll have to wear a lot of hats — and that can be exhausting: I never anticipated how many different roles I’d need to take on as the founder of a nonprofit. There were days when I was the marketer, the accountant, and the outreach coordinator all in one. It was exhausting, and there were times I wished I could just focus on one thing. But over time, I learned how to delegate and rely on the amazing volunteers who’ve come alongside us to keep things moving forward.
5 . The road will be tougher than you expect, but it’s worth it: There were moments when I felt like giving up. When the challenges seemed too overwhelming and progress was slow. Starting and running a nonprofit isn’t easy, and the setbacks can feel defeating. But looking back, I see how far we’ve come. The journey is difficult, but it’s filled with purpose, and every challenge is a lesson in growth.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I could inspire a movement, it would be one that creates workplaces that embrace neurodivergent individuals and put mental health for everyone at the forefront. We are in the middle of a mental health crisis, and every day, too many people (especially those who think and experience the world differently) are left behind because they don’t fit into a one-size-fits-all mold. Imagine a world where instead of being ignored or misunderstood, people’s unique strengths are not just accepted, but celebrated. A world where mental health is seen as a priority for everyone, not a burden to hide or ignore, and where every single person; no matter their background, their struggles, or their differences; has the chance to shine, to be seen, to be heard, and to succeed.
This isn’t just about helping people find jobs; it’s about creating a world where they can feel human, where they don’t have to hide parts of themselves to fit in, and where they have the chance to contribute in a way that feels true to who they are. I’ve seen it firsthand, when we support each other, when we listen, when we stop expecting people to be “perfect” and just allow them to be themselves, that’s when real change happens. That’s when the world becomes a better place for all of us. This movement isn’t just a dream; it’s something we can build together, one person at a time.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
One of my favorite life lesson quotes is by Maya Angelou: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
I’ve seen firsthand how much of an impact simply showing up and making someone feel valued can have. It’s those moments of connection, the trust we build, that create lasting change. And to me, that’s the heart of it all. Making people feel like they matter.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
I’ve been asked this before, and it’s a tough one because there are so many bright minds I’d love to meet. I can’t narrow it to just one today, but if I had to choose, I’d say Keanu Reeves and Daymond John.
Keanu Reeves is someone who has always struck me with his incredible focus, dedication, and humility. Despite his immense fame, he remains grounded, down-to-earth, and genuinely kind to those around him. His focus on his craft, his generosity, and his positive attitude in the face of challenges are qualities I truly admire, and I would love to learn from his perspective on life and success.
Daymond John, especially coming from Queens like myself, has an inspiring story of perseverance. His journey from struggling with dyslexia to building FUBU and becoming a renowned entrepreneur is nothing short of remarkable. His openness about overcoming challenges and his dedication to his vision is something I find motivating and worth celebrating.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
Social Impact Heroes: Why & How Jacqueline Diaz of The Steven Spectrum Career Project Is Helping To… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.