Newsletter – May 2026

Register now for the October 2026 First Place Global Symposium!

In 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. Mark your calendars and take advantage of early bird registration!

Next HMA takes Global to Chicago.

“The Chicago Local Leaders Workshop was nothing short of inspiring,” said Toyosi Adesoye, Associate Director of Applied Research at First Place Global. The Chicago Housing Market Analysis (HMA)—our 12th—includes this important event where experts, family members and self-advocates gather for rich, honest dialogue about the housing landscape, access to services and some of the most pressing challenges providers face today. The workshop sparked conversations that move the needle on housing needs and preferences for adults with autism and/or intellectual/ developmental disabilities seeking to live more independently. Stay tuned for details on the 2026 release of this major market’s HMA!

Get ready for Be Ready^® in July.

Enrollment for the July cohort is open! Be Ready is a free, in-person job readiness program designed for adults with autism, intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, neurodiversity and/or mental health diagnoses. Learn more and enroll.

Community Life is out of this world!

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…a day in May became an annual celebration—especially for some dedicated residents (aka as prospective Jedis). As they say, “May the ‘fourth’ be with you!”

Residents shifted their focus from humans to canines during a recent project in the culinary teaching kitchen. Brooke Moorhead, First Place lead employment specialist, guided everyone through baking dog biscuits for delivery to the Arizona Humane Society. The homemade treats should bring some joy to pets awaiting their forever homes!

May means Mother’s Day, so residents headed to the Cox Community Room to enjoy a group project of creating lovely, unique cards with their own special touch from a plethora of art supplies. The common thread among the masterpieces? A shared love of moms and grandmas.

“Building Blocks” program builds better overall health.

Hear what First Place–Phoenix Wellness Coordinator Rebecca Bauer has to say about “Building Blocks,” a motivating new personalized meal-building program made possible by Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation that helps residents with nutrition planning on their paths to greater independence—and better health!

Bright spotlight on volunteers.

It was all fun and games—and food—when residents recently gathered with First Place–Phoenix volunteers in the Cox Community Room. The opportunity for some healthy competition also helped everyone get to know each other better. Thank you, valued volunteers, for the powerful, positive energy you bring to our supportive community!

Benefits of boosting social skills.

Monthly “Social Savvy” workshops bring residents together for a community meal and the opportunity to practice social skills, including being an active listener and learning how to keep conversations interesting. These beneficial (and well attended!) gatherings help residents successfully navigate aspects of more independent living, including self-advocacy, friendships and employment.

Another Transition Academy graduation starts a new decade.

Congratulations to all the First Place Transition Academy graduates who recently walked across the stage, proudly received their diplomas, and confidently marched on with greater independent living and career readiness skills. First Place’s Learn4Independence® curriculum, taught at the Transition Academy in collaboration with Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC), prepares adults with autism to live more independently. We’re thrilled for all the graduates and their families!