TEMECULA – JDS Creative Academy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing inclusive arts education and workforce development, has been officially named the 2026 Riverside County District 3 Nonprofit of the Year by Supervisor Chuck Washington.
The proclamation honors JDS Creative Academy’s ongoing commitment to enriching the community through accessible arts education, creative expression, and career pathway opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities. The recognition highlights the organization’s impact in serving individuals with disabilities, underserved populations, and youths in the foster care system, providing innovative programming in film, theater, music, and digital arts.
Through hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world production experiences, JDS Creative Academy equips participants with practical skills that foster confidence, independence, and pathways to meaningful employment. Its inclusive model ensures that every individual, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to discover and develop their creative potential.
The Board of Supervisors commended JDS Creative Academy for its lasting impact across Riverside County, noting the organization’s role in cultivating a vibrant arts community, strengthening local partnerships, and inspiring the next generation of storytellers, creators, and cultural leaders.
Diane Strand, Founder of JDS Creative Academy, said, “It’s a great honor to be recognized in this way. I’m very proud of the impact our #JDSFamily makes.” And Co-Founder Scott Strand said he was, “Humbled and proud”. During Diane’s remarks, she credited the team for the creativity that comes together to do what they do every day, and thanked her board of directors for their support and commitment.
JDS Creative Academy is a regional leader in arts education and workforce development, providing programs that bridge creative skills with real-world soft skills for career advancement.
For more information about JDS Creative Academy and its programs, visit JDSCreativeAcademy.org
