Newsletter – March 2026

Vote the Spectrum^® Listening Session comes in loud and clear.

Self-advocates, families, educators and systems specialists gathered at First Place–Phoenix this month for an engaging and informative Listening Session. In a nonpartisan space, participants shared their experiences with civic engagement—what works and what needs to change. This is what Vote the Spectrum is all about: making it easier for individuals with autism and/or disabilities to understand how decisions get made and how to be part of the process. Thank you to everyone who joined us and shared their thoughts—your participation is informing what’s next for Vote the Spectrum!

Work Works Wonders—and makes for a wonderful evening!

We are grateful to learn from those who gathered this week for our Work Works Wonders™ event recognizing the proven power and promise of neuro-inclusive workplaces. We were honored to host Arizona Commerce Authority President and CEO Sandra Watson, former Delaware Governor Jack Markell, The Precisionists, Inc. (TPI) Founder and CEO Ernie Dianastasis and others in the room who agree that putting adults of all abilities to work creates a better bottom line for businesses, communities and economies everywhere.

The Work Works Wonders event was joined by our favorite violin virtuoso, Laura Nadine, who performed with the amazing Phoenix Symphony quartet. Thank you, Laura, for delighting everyone present with your endless talent—and thank you, Phoenix Symphony, for all the contributions you make to our community!

Hope and the power of partnerships.

In her latest blog, Denise D. Resnik, First Place Global founder & president/CEO, contemplates how hope endures when partnerships are as durable as the supportive properties they build.

The multifaceted benefits of crafty residents’ creativity.

Spring has sprung at First Place–Phoenix! Thanks again to creative craft time made possible by K2 Adventures Foundation, residents recently gathered to add personal flair to bright butterflies—and some splash on the walls in their apartments. Next, they showed up to show some heartfelt appreciation for First Place–Phoenix staff. Combining cards, pens and stickers supplied by K2’s ongoing generosity, they crafted some colorful messages to those dedicated to supporting them on their paths to more independent, joyful living.

If it’s March, it’s time to visit with the majestic, gentle giants at Hunkapi horse farm where Scottsdale still offers unpaved desert beauty. Residents learned how to communicate by syncing their breath with the horses’ to encourage calmness and trust. Everyone shared a collective sigh during a tranquil trek around the grounds.

Residents are always reaching new heights. Recently, that meant the adventure of scaling the climbing wall at Ability360 Sports & Fitness Center. How about a virtual high-five to everyone who took on this daunting challenge!

Cooking at First Place–Phoenix is about more than standing over a stove.

It’s about planning, shopping, prepping and storing. Every Friday, the First Place–Phoenix supports team works with a small group of residents to focus on a single recipe, working through each delicious detail to work on their culinary skills—and healthier eating. Bon appétit!

April Preview

The letter “A” is prominent in April! World Autism Month encourages acceptance and advocacy to support individuals on the spectrum, fund critical research and inspire lasting change.

Don’t miss First Place–Phoenix’s annual spring performance!

Residents, Transition Academy students, First Place–Phoenix staff and theater friends from ASU are ready to treat us to another lively live performance, thanks to our supportive community partner Arizona Commission on the Arts. An enjoyable evening of laughs awaits the audience of this clever take on the classic whodunit! Get your tickets here—and see you there!