Newsletter – June 2026

Don’t miss the Dimensions^® 2026 Global Symposium—and various compelling panels!

This October, First Place Global’s annual symposium will reshape the conversation with select panels that bridge critical gaps separating individuals with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) from the home and community options they need and deserve.

Here’s a preview: Our “mothers on a mission” panel turns personal experience and a collective sense of urgency into public leadership—building models, advancing policy and challenging systems that often leave individuals and families with too few choices. Join us to hear firsthand on this and myriad timely topics; register by Thursday, Aug. 13 for the 20% early-bird discount!

We’re on Substack!

First Place Global has entered the world of Substack! For the latest on housing, healthcare, employment, education, policy and films—as it pertains to our work with individuals with autism and/or I/DD—check us out here. The subscription is free—and we’re always adding more to read and watch!

AADMD conference presentations

First Place Global was recently honored to present at the One Voice Conference of the American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry (AADMD) in Dallas. Associate Director of Public Policy Josh Munoz and First Place Transition Academy Managing Director brad herron-valenzuela shared how the Learn4Independence^® curriculum supports adults with autism and/or other disabilities in building skills for greater independence and how 360 Health & Wellness^® helps healthcare professionals provide more effective, compassionate care. Thank you, AADMD, for another inspiring conference!

Where we are and where we need to go.

In her June blog, First Place AZ/First Place Global Founder & President/CEO Denise D. Resnik reflects on the convergence of Matt’s 35th birthday and the 10-year anniversary of the First Place–Phoenix groundbreaking.

A month to be proud!

Residents and staff recently gathered for a joyful, colorful celebration in honor of Pride Month. They supported each other and showed their powerful pride while enjoying good food, fun games and big laughs. Together with Autistic Pride Day, First Place–Phoenix pledges to work together EVERY day to amplify the voices of individuals with autism and/or I/DD, promote acceptance—and show our pride!

June community life:
fathers, friends & food!

Goodhearted residents gathered to make Father’s Day cards for Circle the City, an amazing organization dedicated to providing healthcare and hope to individuals facing homelessness.

First Place Transition Academy student Nathan has taken friendship and community to the next level by creating a Mario Kart Pro League for residents. The league reinforces many of the skills needed to enjoy greater independence, including social engagement, communication and scheduling. Plus…it’s a blast! Thanks, Nathan!

Leave it to Chef Titina to assemble the freshest ingredients for a delicious summer menu of paninis and salad! Residents gathered with gusto in the First Place–Phoenix teaching kitchen to lend a hand and learn.

Lots of lasting friendships have been forged among First Place–Phoenix residents over the past decade, and there’s no better time than June’s National Best Friends Day to recognize all the besties out there!

Housing questions:

What’s the difference? And what’s best for me?

The differences among various residential living options for adults with autism and/or I/DD can be confusing. In the latest First Place–Phoenix blog, we compare two common models—supportive and independent living—to help clarify.