Whether it’s counting down to a birthday trip, planning a milestone move or preparing for a first job, anticipation is a powerful force—one we can harness in our communities with the right supports and shared imagination.
By Denise D. Resnik, Founder & President/CEO
A unique energy flows from anticipation. It shows up in the buildup to something meaningful—a long-awaited trip, a birthday celebration, a family gathering or the start of something new.
Our family felt it this month as we planned a multigenerational trip to Disneyland, where we celebrated several important milestones: Matt’s 34th birthday, the grandkids’ birthdays (Hannah, 7, and Morgan, 4) and their parents’ 10-year anniversary. The anticipation alone brought palpable joy, with Matt revisiting favorite Disney Sing-Along videos on his iPad; the grandkids counting down the days and the inches (making sure Morgan was tall enough to join on most rides); the family swapping notes on travel plans, healthy snacks and ride strategies (I don’t do roller coasters!).
While the experience was filled with laughter, warm weather, tender moments and thrills both expected and unexpected, it also reminded me how much we expect of people as they navigate large systems—especially when those systems are loud, crowded and complex.
Even the most magical places require preparation, flexibility and trust. Perhaps that’s what anticipation actually offers us: a way to prepare—not just for the highlights but for the moments in between. Such moments reminded me that community, inclusion and joy don’t just exist at the peak of the roller coaster. They also live in the quiet pauses. The unexpected detours. The recovery when plans shift.
At First Place AZ, we often ponder what it means to anticipate. We build communities that anticipate needs and support growth while recognizing that success doesn’t always produce a thrill. It can be one’s own apartment. A first job. A reassuring routine. A good night’s sleep. A moment of calm in a loud world.
Anticipation isn’t just about looking ahead. It’s preparing and building the physical, emotional and relational infrastructure that embraces both the thrill of big ideas and the steadiness of thoughtful planning and design.
That’s our focus as we prepare for the 14th First Place Global Symposium this October. We’re planning conversations about community, housing, employment, leadership and systems that work—not just when everything’s going smoothly but also when life gets complicated.
We’ll be joined by people (like you!) from public, private and philanthropic sectors spanning generations of experience and wisdom. Leaders motivated by big ideas. Families navigating real-world challenges. Employers poised to innovate. Researchers turning sound data into positive, sustainable outcomes. And always keeping those we serve—individuals with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities—at the center of the story. Those whose lives, contributions and aspirations move us toward action.
This is your invitation to imagine with us what’s possible.
Join us October 15–17 in Phoenix—or online—as we explore the myriad ways we build confidence, connection and community.