Advancing new ideas
and innovative solutions
for adults with autism and/or
intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD).

First Place Global’s five centers are aligned in the pursuit of research, public policy and independence-enabling ideas, while also providing multidisciplinary training for field experts, educators and medical professionals. 

The Centers

1
Education, Training & Employment

Maricopa County IDA Center

Working to get people working.

By strengthening skills and forging collaborations with employers, the Maricopa County IDA Center for Education, Training & Employment is committed to generating 1,000 Arizona jobs for individuals with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) by 2030.
2
Community Development

Make Waves Center

A lifetime of health begins at home—every day.

Make Waves Center for Community Development fosters community inclusion by fueling supportive housing options through replicable design, development strategies and programmatic models.
3
Applied Research

Colonel Harland Sanders Center

With information comes transformation.

Colonel Harland Sanders Center for Applied Research is advancing translational research to inform creative, adult-focused programs, best practices and support-scaled solutions.
4
Expression

Mulzet Center

Turning compelling stories into powerful action.

Mulzet Center for Expression is combining strategy and creativity to inspire and impact local, national and global audiences—while opening doors to all forms of expression for those we serve.
5
Public Policy

The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation Center

Pulling for people, pushing for change.

By championing systems change and increased funding, The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation Center for Public Policy is working to improve housing, healthcare and accessibility to supportive services for individuals with autism and/or I/DD.

First Place Global

Addressing complex issues with bold ideas and proven strategies.
Play Video

Dimensions®
First Place Global Symposium

October 14–16, 2026
In person or online

Get ready for Dimensions® 2026 this October! During sessions infused with relevant expertise, boundless creativity and a determined passion for change, we’ll work together to bridge the gaps separating individuals with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities from the vital housing, healthcare, employment and education they need for lives of purpose and possibility. During three days of productive dialogue and special kinship, we’ll reinforce our individual and collective roles as bridges to lasting, measurable human outcomes.

Learn More

Innovative Curricula & Toolkits

First Place is advancing new opportunities for learning with curricula and toolkits to help develop day-to-day living skills, build healthcare literacy, promote safety and guide individuals on a path to greater independence.

Learn More

Housing Market Analyses & Consulting

First Place is driving future planning, funding and innovation with market studies that analyze the needs and preferences of the populations we serve. A Place in the World® and housing market analyses in Phoenix and various cities across the U.S. address the shortage of housing options and supportive services for adults with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD).

Learn More

Vote the Spectrum®

Amplifying voices, increasing engagement.

Vote the Spectrum is a year-round, nonpartisan platform that provides adults with autism and/or other disabilities, their families and allies with the information and tools to confidently participate in civic engagement.

Learn More

Connecting through creative expression

Many individuals with autism and/or I/DD often connect and communicate with authenticity and great passion through the arts. First Place Global engages with a variety of artists so that we can learn from their experiences and celebrate the beauty of their expression.

See More

Here's how to improve employment rates for people with autism

04/29/26 – Press Release
Tempe resident Kevin Shauf grew up wanting to be a hero and at 39 he's fulfilling his dreams by helping Arizonans get Medicaid and nutrition assistance. Shauf, who is on the autism spectrum, has had jobs in the past, such as a part-time position working the deep fryer for french fries at a fast-food restaurant. But his data entry job at the Arizona Department of Economic Security is full time, gives him health benefits and allows him to rent his own apartment.
Learn More

Living Inclusively

01/01/26 – Peoria City Lifestyle
When Denise Resnik talks about home, she isn't referring only to a physical address. She's talking about belonging, independence, and the right to a joyful, purposeful adult life, regardless of your neurotype. As founder and president/CEO of First Place AZ, co-founder of Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC), longtime PR agency owner, and above all, Matthew's mom, Resnik has spent more than three decades reshaping the way communities think about adults with autism and/or other intellectual/developmental disabilities.
Learn More

2025 MCDI Disability Awareness and Recognition Outstanding Non-Profit Award

11/05/25 – City of Phoenix
The 2025 Disability Awards and Recognition Event (D.A.R.E.), recently presented by the Phoenix Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues (MCDI) and the Equal Opportunity Department, delivered powerful sources of encouragement, reflection and memories, all choreographed by the dynamic MCDI board chair and fellow mother on a mission, Nicole Anderson.
Learn More