Looking to help son with special needs find friends in Rochester

Help

This is a bit of an odd question, but I'm not sure where else to ask.

My 18-year-old son was born premature and has various medical issues/special needs that impact his ability and opportunities to make friends.

He is a sweet, kind, and funny kid, but is still developing the social skills to form relationships with peers. Anxiety also contributes to this problem. 

I know he wants to spend more time with other young people and is probably getting sick of always being stuck with his parents. There are obviously existing organizations like Best Buddies that we are part of, but some of those friendships don't seem to last for whatever reason.

He enjoys movies, playing video games, biking, and most of all music. Listening to live music and playing the drums are his favorite activities. We've tried many times to find other young people for him to play music with, but it's been much more difficult than you would think.  He loves to play all kinds of music with some of his favorites being ACDC, Green Day, Red Hot Chili Peppers, as well as many 80s bands.  He is basically willing to play anything and can jam along to any song and play by ear.

I am just trying to find any peers that might be interested in playing music with my son or any engaging in any of his other interests in the hopes of fostering friendships.  I just know that music is the way to his heart and also the easiest way for him to be social.  Any advice or suggestions are much appreciated!

Posted Jun 8, 2026, 4:46 PM UTC

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