By Denise D. Resnik, Founder & President/CEO, First Place AZ/First Place Global; Co-Founder, Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center; and Matt’s Mom
We had packed it all: extra meds and a change of clothes, plenty of word search puzzles, power cords, patience and a plan. I even had pictures of Matt’s identification loaded on my phone. What I didn’t have: the hard copy of his passport or state ID.
What should have been the typical, easy 60-minute flight from San Diego to Phoenix spiraled into an eight-hour ordeal—and a timely reminder for National Accessible Air Travel Day on August 20.
The Southwest Airlines agents were kind, calm and well-trained. They didn’t need a long explanation about our son’s autism. They understood the importance of clear communication, practical accommodations—and dignity. Our experience with TSA was a different story.
After I paid the $45 TSA ConfirmID fee so Matt’s identity could be verified, I was directed to a chair in a corner for our son and told a supervisor would return in 10 minutes. We still had more than an hour before boarding and I was assured we would be fine.
Matt sat patiently completing his word searches while I stood and watched for the supervisor. Ten minutes became 20 before I respectfully and politely started nudging the TSA agents managing incoming passengers, who acknowledged me with a few kind words.
Three different TSA supervisors stopped by, each requiring me to re-explain everything. A San Diego police officer conducted a background check. Then came my more emotional plea about not wanting to miss our flight—and one agent’s quip that tears were not going to help and there was no way we would make it.
So we rolled the dice. We booked the next flight with one open seat, put one of us on standby and held seats on a later evening flight, just in case. The good news: We both got on the next flight. The not-so-good news: It was delayed by several hours.
So we walked…more than 10,000 steps, with breaks for stretching, word searches, snacks and small purchases—including my overpriced favorite suckers. We practiced scanning items, using a credit card, making eye contact, offering proper greetings and following public restroom protocols (thanks to those private family restrooms).
While Matt was learning, so was I—and we were together. We looked at photos from our recent family vacation reminding us of fun times in a cooler climate. We played lots of games. I added items to his schedule that he could happily check off. He also enjoyed his favorite videos while I caught up with a longtime friend who also happened to be at the airport—someone who has supported our autism journey from the start and who shared that his grandson had just been diagnosed. I was reminded of many soul-nourishing moments along the way.
I learned all over again why we should leave nothing to chance—or at home—when we travel. Especially when it comes to proper ID. Photos on a phone may be helpful, but they’re no substitute for what’s required at the checkpoint. TSA ConfirmID can be a resource for adults without standard identification, but it is not guaranteed and clearly not fast. Families should also plan for additional time to anticipate unexpected delays.
This unfortunate incident reminded me of the power of people who do not demand a detailed explanation, like a trained airline agent or a patient stranger. The comforts of a family restroom and a chair in a quiet corner. These are not luxuries. They are essential parts of what makes travel possible, manageable and—at certain times—even bearable.
National Accessible Air Travel Day reminds us that accessible travel is more than ramps, wheelchairs and boarding procedures. It’s also about a collective, keen awareness of sensory needs, cognitive disabilities, communication differences, caregiver roles—and the invisible burden families carry every time they step into an airport.
For families preparing to fly, resources can help. The Arc’s Wings for Autism/Wings for All offers airport rehearsal experiences so people with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities can practice check-in and security procedures, waiting at the gate and boarding a plane. Southwest Airlines also provides information about cognitive and developmental disability, including assistance from curb to gate and during connections. These tools matter because practice builds confidence—for travelers, families and aviation professionals.
For airports, airlines and federal agencies, the need is clear: Train, listen, communicate and design systems that recognize the full range of passenger ability. A person with autism may not look like someone who needs support. A parent or caregiver may appear calm until the system stops working for them. A delay that is inconvenient for one traveler can be destabilizing for another. Air travel opens doors—to family, work, adventure, independence and belonging. But those doors must be accessible, predictable and dignified.
As we acknowledge National Accessible Air Travel Day, I am grateful for those whose shoulders we stand on, for advocates pushing the aviation industry forward and for every professional who chooses patience over policy-speak. I am also mindful of the work still ahead—one airport, one checkpoint and one person at a time.
Prepare for takeoff!
Join the conversation at Dimensions 2026, First Place Global’s 15th symposium, October 14–16, in Phoenix, Arizona. Register here.
A good plan can’t avoid all crises, but it can make moving through them easier. When families or guardians of adults with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) contemplate the life unfolding in front of their loved one, that plan can feel daunting. What’s spoken? Unspoken? What should be in writing?
While developing a life plan is critical, it’s not something to rush into or through. It takes foresight. Learning. Revisiting. Updating. And a clear understanding among all parties involved.
The list of considerations is extensive: housing, healthcare, the changing scope of finances, legal needs, life skills, social connections, emotional well-being—and everything else that makes life complex and fulfilling. With sound planning, you can put your loved one on a path to greater independence with the support they need.
The plan you develop today can follow your loved one throughout their lifetime—long after you’re no longer here. It can help answer tough questions in advance, maximize years of independence, ensure long-term security, and organize financial and legal needs. It’s a bridge that gets them over many transitions. It will also help you feel better about what’s around the corner—and around the corner after that. You’re eliminating the guesswork for those entrusted to care for your loved one.
Independence looks different for everyone. The skills required naturally vary from person to person—and sometimes must be refreshed as we age. As you develop your loved one’s plan, think through the skills they will rely on most. Are they proficient or need more work? Are there new skills to explore? Set goals and help your loved one build skills gradually. Let’s consider some fundamentals:
A purposeful life requires more than skills. It’s important to acknowledge what makes your loved one happy—or unhappy. How do they express emotions? How do they cope with others’ emotions?
As you work through your checklist, create and engage a reliable support network: e.g., a group of friends and/or relatives who can be there for them when they need the extra emotional, intellectual and physical support. That support should begin as soon as you develop your plan.
One of the most important parts of the plan is determining realistic residential options. What level of independence works best? What’s affordable? What’s a good fit and what’s not?
In a previous blog, we compared independent living with supportive living. Both provide varying levels of autonomy. Full independence means living in one’s own residence—alone or with roommates. Supportive living offers adults a place they can call their own but with amenities, programs and services that provide varying levels of autonomy.
Additional residential community options can meet the spectrum of needs of adults with autism and/or I/DD. Some examples:
Resources like the Autism Housing Network can also help you locate these and other residential options across the country.
Financial stability is essential to a solid foundation for lifelong independence. It can also be a source of anxiety for parents and guardians. When you’re ready to discuss the details, you’ll want qualified professional financial advice. A chartered special needs consultant (ChSNC) is a financial advisor who focuses on the needs of individuals with disabilities and their government benefits, achieving a better life experience (ABLE) accounts and long-term financial well-being.
Items to discuss include:
What happens when an individual with autism and/or I/DD turns 18? Depending on their guardianship status, the law presumes an 18-year-old is fully responsible for their legal choices. Explore formal or less-restrictive legal structures, depending on your loved one’s ability to manage daily life, healthcare and financial responsibilities. Choose the right level of support with respect for their independence preferences and abilities.
In addition to organizing records, managing medications and establishing wellness routines, your plan needs to include a path to experienced healthcare professionals who will understand your loved one and administer care appropriately. This may require extra time and work, considering the prevailing lack of focus on adults with autism and/or I/DD in healthcare education and practice. The goal is to ensure a continuum of care—and prevent the “services cliff” that affects so many individuals after they age out of pediatric care.
Consider the following essential healthcare to-dos:
Social connections have proven to play a critical role in lifelong mental and physical health. As you plan for your loved one’s path into and throughout adulthood, lay the groundwork for opportunities to connect. This can be introductions to clubs, volunteer programs, church or community groups, and a strong network of friends and relatives. Meaningful relationships and activities contribute to overall confidence, pride—and the motivation to stay healthy.
Employment is also an effective pathway to purposeful connections. Employment training can prepare your loved one for finding a job in a positive, neuro-inclusive environment. By discussing job interests, skills and employment goals early, you can help them establish their place in the community while emphasizing that meaningful contribution can take many forms.
Another relationship should be built into your plan. Social connection matters as much for parents and caregivers as for the people they support. Families who have already navigated this journey are among your most valuable resources: they know the questions to ask, the obstacles and the shortcuts. Advocacy organizations, parent networks and professionals who specialize in this field offer the kind of knowledge no checklist can provide. A plan that accounts for your loved one’s well-being but leaves no room for yours cannot be sustained.
One of the best ways to prepare your child for adulthood is to step back and give them room to succeed—and fail. By supporting their decision-making instead of making their decisions for them, you can foster confidence and encourage self-advocacy. Look for opportunities to let them plan safe activities, think through problems and manage unexpected situations. Both of you may be surprised by the outcome!
As previously noted, planning for tomorrow and beyond can be daunting. What parent is not afraid to let go? The uncertainty around housing, finances and long-term care can be overwhelming. It’s like the hall closet stuffed so full that opening it means risking a cascade of emotions and objects compelling us to urgently shut it with all our might! But you have to open it eventually; and while a few things may fall, you can always pick them up and put them back in their rightful place.
One framework designed to help families open that proverbial closet—and make sense of what’s inside—is Golden Agreements. It offers a structured approach to the conversations that build your lifelong team. What does your loved one need? Who is responsible for what? What happens when life doesn’t follow the plan? It brings families, caregivers and support networks into alignment around those critical questions.
The social activities, skills-building programs and built-in neighbors that supportive communities like First Place–Phoenix provide can help bridge the gap between family living and independent adulthood. This type of living environment can also serve to connect residents to the surrounding community, creating a greater sense of belonging.
Are you feeling a sense of urgency? That’s understandable—but try to avoid acting out of haste. Take small, intentional steps with the plan to help you manage emotions, think with clarity and check all the boxes.
Adulthood is coming—if it’s not already here. A sound, intentional life plan, especially when started sooner than later, can help your loved one successfully grow into it—and live the kind of life we all envision for our children.
First Place Global is hosting an informative 90-minute webinar to help you plan for your loved one with autism and/or I/DD. Join us to learn how legal, financial, family and housing plans can combine to help create greater clarity, reduce potential future conflict and support a meaningful life. Register before Tuesday, August 18.
The differences among various residential living options for adults with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) can be confusing. Two models in particular, supportive and independent living, are often compared. While both can help promote autonomy, the right choice depends on your needs, preferences, level of readiness and long-term goals. In this blog, we’ll focus on these two models, exploring key differences and benefits to help you choose what’s right for you.
In its truest definition, independence means living in your own residence—alone or with roommates—with maximum autonomy. It can include friendships, the freedom to plan and cook meals, the possibility of a steady job, the confidence to use public transportation and the responsibility that comes with paying bills. The goal is to increase autonomy as you pursue and experience daily activities, social engagement and employment opportunities.
Supportive living is empowered living, not assisted living. It offers adults with autism and/or I/DD an opportunity to live in a place they can call their own and includes amenities, programs and services that provide varying levels of autonomy. Unlike group homes, this person-centered model prioritizes self-direction, emphasizing a range of life skills that instill confidence. Supports can evolve with the individual, helping them transition to greater levels of independence with time and experience.
Need | Independent Living | Supportive Living |
|---|---|---|
| Level of Support | Low or occasional support needs | Regular, personalized support needs |
| Daily Routines | Mostly self-managed | Managed through reminders, coaching or direct help |
| Best Fit | Adults who can manage many tasks with limited support | Adults who want independence but need more structure |
| Family Role | Occasional support and planning coordination | More active coordination with support providers |
| Safety | Basic safety awareness and emergency planning | More hands-on safety support needs |
| Main Goal | Greater autonomy and self-direction | Independence with structured support |
Enjoying a self-directed life doesn’t mean living day to day without support. Individuals with autism and/or I/DD can see their independence grow with the help of routines and planned activities, assistive scheduling and budgeting technology, supportive services, employment training and family support.
Other common supports include:
Imagine what it would mean to have control over daily routines, planned activities, meals, privacy and personal relationships.
Autonomy gives you an opportunity to think about what’s right for you and speak up when you need help—or need to be heard. Autonomy empowers you to express your needs, ask questions and make personal decisions.
Social engagement and community involvement don’t always come easy for someone with autism and/or I/DD—but here is an opportunity to work on both. You can join social activities, look for work opportunities, explore transportation options and seek out ways to be civically engaged.
Living with personalized supports can help you plan and maintain your daily routines, plan your meals, maintain hygiene, schedule and keep appointments and stay on top of tasks around the home.
The consistency of personalized supports is like having a personal trainer. You have someone to help establish proper techniques, tools and systems—which can reduce stress and build confidence.
Structured support can provide the reassurance of supervision together with self-guidance. That can mean peace of mind for family and friends.
When a support team is actively involved in your daily life, you have a built-in network of friends. Regular interaction helps build your communication skills and confidence and reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness.
If the ultimate goal is greater autonomy, a supportive community environment can help you build the required life skills.
Families and guardians can often work with the individual to recognize what situation will work best. Goals can be identified, strengths and preferences can be discussed and areas for growth should definitely be considered. One option—independence vs supportive living—is not better than the other, so avoid any discussion of labels.
A supportive community like First Place–Phoenix provides a suite of supports, amenities and community life activities that help adults with autism and/or I/DD thrive as they chart their individual paths to more independent living. Employment training plays a key role in the pursuit of greater autonomy—even volunteer opportunities promote the skills to help you establish a life you can call your own.
Location is also important, and the convenient, midtown neighborhood surrounding First Place–Phoenix gives residents easy access to employment opportunities, shopping, recreation, entertainment and public transportation. Living in a connected community offers a higher level of autonomy and engagement.
Whether you choose supportive living, independent living or a pathway that includes both, the goal is the same: a meaningful life with the right balance of autonomy, connection and support. Often the best way to attain and enjoy independence is to ease into it. Learn as you go—and go as you learn!
By Denise D. Resnik, Founder & President/CEO, First Place AZ/First Place Global; Co-Founder, Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center; and Matt’s Mom
In preparation for Matt’s 35th year and the 10-year anniversary of the First Place–Phoenix groundbreaking, I’ve been reflecting on where we’ve been, where we are and where we need to go.
When Matt was diagnosed with autism in 1993, there was no roadmap for our family—no internet to guide late-night searching, no established playbook for what a meaningful adult life could look like—and scarce examples of what was possible beyond childhood. Like so many families, we were left to navigate uncertainty while trying to build a future we could not yet envision.
Out of that uncertainty came a sense of urgency and a simple but powerful realization: If the community and infrastructure we needed did not exist, we would have to help build them. That spirit helped shape Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC), First Place AZ and the broader work that continues today.
This week, we celebrated Matt’s birthday surrounded by family and friends who have been there from the start, along with his First Place–Phoenix neighbors who taught him how to play Mario Kart and always cheer him on. They are the same neighbors who express their appreciation for Matt’s kindness, participate in his favorite Uno and Scrabble games, and remind him to bring two water bottles to weekly workouts. They are those in his life who don’t get paid to care about him—or each other.
None of this began with buildings alone but with families, questions, heartbreak—and a fervent refusal to accept that isolation, stagnation or limited expectations should define the future for those we love.
We now know more about what adults with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities need to live healthy, connected, purpose-filled lives. We also know that housing should not be separated from other key social determinants like health, employment, education, connection, public policy and the broader community.
Yet even with all we have learned, too many families still face the same looming questions: Where will my son or daughter live? Who will support them when I am no longer able? What options will exist for people with different strengths, needs, resources and aspirations?
Such urgent questions demand more than compassionate answers. They require intentional community development, measurable outcomes, benchmarking, supportive public policy, shared investment—and the courage to keep building and learning.
First Place Global’s 15th symposium, Dimensions℠ 2026, will reflect honestly on history—not dwelling on what was missing but honoring what families, self-advocates, practitioners, researchers, policymakers and community leaders have made possible. Together with tireless leaders in our field, we will continue charting a course that moves us beyond scarcity and one-size-fits-all thinking toward a new generation of housing and community options that are more diverse, more sustainable, more affordable and more responsive across the lifespan.
Building community doesn’t happen quickly. It takes connections, practice, natural consequences, lessons learned—and lots of celebrations. This work is deeply personal to me and so many others because of the history we carry and the community we create together. While data and outcomes are important to advancing our mission, stats don’t tell me everything Matt needs, what makes him happy—or what his smile and heart are truly saying.
Watch highlights from Matt’s 35th birthday party here.
Join the conversation at Dimensions 2026, First Place Global’s 15th symposium, October 14–16, in Phoenix, Arizona. Register here.
For many adults with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), living independently is an important albeit lofty goal. It’s a milestone that can mean a purpose-filled, self-directed life with much greater challenges than what neurotypical individuals experience when they move out of the family home, especially for the first time.
If you or a loved one has autism and/or I/DD, such a significant move requires planning, a system of supports, tools, training and a connected community. Patience and flexibility are also essential.
In the reflections that follow, we’ll explore what it means to live independently, what expectations you should have, what preparations are necessary—and what can get in the way of success.
It’s important to know that independent living can be different for everyone—it’s up to the individual to define. Most people with autism and/or I/DD would agree that it means having choices over their daily life without constant supervision. That’s empowering—and can take different forms:
However you define your independence, common features typically include access to transportation, employment, shopping and recreation, along with feeling comfortable with essential abilities like life skills, budgeting, working and making friends.
Challenges to living independently vary from person to person. Executive functions like task prioritization, retaining information and adapting to change can become hurdles due to the rigors of everyday life. This can also impact the ability to manage emotions and maintain focus—and the possibility of overload.
Individualized strategies to keep your life organized can help. This can include daily routines, activities you enjoy, scheduled phone calls with family or friends—any form of self-care that allows you to regulate and reduce stress.
Managing everyday domestic responsibilities like grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, laundry and hygiene are fundamental to independent living. But sensory sensitivities, task sequencing and other issues can make errands and chores challenging for an individual with autism and/or I/DD.
Establishing practical strategies can help reduce stress, increase routines and build confidence. Schedules, checklists and automated reminders can provide order and predictability. Turning a big task into a series of smaller ones can make it manageable and less intimidating. Such frameworks can help make daily goals achievable.
To prepare for such a major life decision, many individuals choose a life skills training program like the First Place Transition Academy. Developed with Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC), the Transition Academy is a two-year program that helps adults with autism build crucial independent living and career-readiness skills.
Living independently requires financial decision making, yet paying bills (including rent!), budgeting for necessities and saving money can be impacted by executive function challenges and anxiety.
Easy-to-use tools can help. Bill pay services ensure timely payments. Budgeting apps can provide visual management, real-time tracking and automatic savings, as well as reduce cognitive load. Some individuals may even find that their math skills come in handy.
It’s important to remember that money management is a skill. It may need to be learned gradually, fueled by natural consequences—and a support person or coach can help. Explore all your options!
A good job can teach skills, build confidence, foster relationships and provide purpose. For individuals with autism and/or I/DD, this can be life changing—yet many have never been employed due to lack of experience with communication and interview skills, work environments that are not neuro-inclusive and misunderstood job expectations.
Doors are opening, however, as more neurodivergent jobseekers enroll in employment training programs like Be Ready®. that can prepare you to succeed in the workplace by exposing skills, teaching job readiness and instilling confidence. It’s important to find the right opportunity. The job must align with your skills, the location must be accessible and the employer must provide reasonable accommodations.
It’s not unusual for individuals with autism and/or I/DD to experience social isolation due to lack of communication skills, as well as behavioral differences and intense efforts put into masking. It’s also important to note that isolation may actually work for some individuals. But if it’s accompanied by loneliness or depression, tools and strategies for changing course are recommended.
Exploring independence in a community with structured social and learning programs may be one solution. They can provide built-in mechanisms for building friendships and discovering new interests. Social skills training can also foster relationship building by improving communication and emotional regulation.
The ability to go from one place to another is a key element of independence. It’s the ultimate freedom. Many people with autism and/or I/DD drive. But for those who don’t, unpredictable public transportation schedules, sensory issues in crowded places and executive function challenges can make transportation difficult. This can impact various other dimensions of an independent life: employment, shopping, social outings and healthcare.
Like so many things in life, practice helps. Getting on a bus or train with family or friends, learning routes and getting used to the crowds can help make using public transportation routine. A navigation app or visual map can simplify the process.
Start slow and steady. Get to know your immediate neighborhood first. Then as you get comfortable, venture out and explore—but stay within your comfort level. Navigating your environment shouldn’t cause anxiety.
With new environments come new sensory stimuli. Unexpected noises, lights and smells. Larger, more unpredictable crowds. All can result in overstimulation, added stress and difficulty coping in a new environment.
Your strategy: Create a sensory-friendly environment within your new home. Consider removing fluorescent lights and using dimmable lighting. Choose neutral colors for decor. Use rugs or acoustic panels to reduce the volume of room sounds. And keep your noise-canceling headphones on hand.
Living in a world made for a neurotypical population can add stressors, so it’s important to make time for self-care. Establish calming routines that reduce burnout. Use special interests—fitness, movies, LEGOS® or video games—to promote recreation and relaxation. Stay close to your support network of family and friends—and use it to help you seek counseling if needed.
It always helps to ease into any new environment or living situation. If this is your first time living independently, here are some things to consider:
Set realistic goals. Remember, you and your support community define what success looks like. Make your goals achievable and spread them out—you don’t need to check them off all at once.
Build your life skills early. Make sure you feel comfortable doing laundry, preparing meals, cleaning your space and taking care of your personal hygiene.
Advocate for yourself. You know what makes you feel comfortable—and what makes you feel uncomfortable. Speak up and let people know.
Celebrate every win. As you reach milestones—your first new friend, your first bus ride, your first month on your own—let your friends and family know, then pat yourself on the back. As they say at First Place–Phoenix, “One first leads to the next!”
Be safe and have fun. Your family and friends are cheering you on!
After you find the location, home and support systems that are just right for you, it’s time to do something you may never have thought possible: Move into a place you can call your own and explore your newfound independence—reinforced over time through practice, natural consequences and ever-increasing confidence.
Ready for your next set of challenges?
Making the most of your new life may come with some uncertainty and fear. Will it be hard to get to know your new surroundings? What will it be like to meet neighbors and make new friends? What will you do with your free time?
This article will help you get comfortable in your new home and surroundings with easy strategies and steps to follow so—someday in the future—you can open your front door and say, “Home sweet home!”
Organize your space. You probably already know what works for you. Labels or color coding can help identify things you use regularly. Organizing food items in your kitchen can make meal prep easier. Note where you keep things like cleaning products and backup toilet paper. Household items you use most often should be easy to find. By creating predictability in your new home, you’ll reduce stress; clutter in our home can sometimes create clutter in our mind. Keep things in their place once you decide where they go.
Routines work wonders. It helps to establish some sameness in your daily activities, so make a schedule, including when you want to:
Keep your schedule handy—on your phone and in a visible location at home. Don’t hesitate to make small modifications to your schedule as you add activities and meet new people.
Pay attention to your sensory sensitivities. A calm, peaceful atmosphere always feels welcoming. Know what colors put you at ease and how lighting and noise affect you. You may even consider some low-maintenance plants—a little greenery can be relaxing. Having neighbors means there may be unexpected sounds and smells. It may be a good idea to use noise cancelling earphones or air fresheners.
Know your budget. Make a weekly budget and include what you’ll need for:
Just like your schedule, make adjustments as needed.
Consider technology solutions. There are many technological tools that support greater independence. Explore your options!
Join a club or volunteer. Whether it’s at the gym, volunteering at the local rescue shelter, playing with an online gaming group or going to worship, there are many ways to be around new people. If you are living in a supportive community like First Place–Phoenix, there may also be daily activities. These are great opportunities to meet new people and make new friends.
Trial and error. It can take a few tries before you figure out what works. Talk about the weather, sports, common interests, or even something interesting or funny you saw online. Start slow and be patient—friendships take time to grow. Just saying “Hi” goes a long way; so does sharing something that makes you happy. If they don’t seem interested right away, you may want to try again before deciding they aren’t a good match and moving on to the next potential friend.
If you’re feeling anxious, that’s OK. It’s more than OK—it’s typical! Many people feel the same way. You can help manage this feeling by planning and scheduling when you want to be around new people and even letting others know you’re nervous to meet them. They may be nervous too, which can put you both at ease.
The internet can tell you a lot about where you are going to live; so can visiting ahead of time with family or friends. Walking around an unfamiliar area with people you know can help you adjust. It can also be fun!
Schedule your exploration. By giving yourself a specific day and time to try a new restaurant or visit a new store, you can reduce any anxiety you might be feeling. Plan your routes, research public transportation and set attainable goals—like trying one new place a week.
Never forget the importance of safety. Being independent also means being mindful of any risks or dangers. A new environment can take you out of your routine or comfort zone. Research your destination, look for autism-friendly businesses and attractions, and identify quiet areas. Be mindful of your sensory triggers and have a plan for managing them (for example, noise-canceling headphones or colored-lens glasses).
Make yourself a “Week 1 Checklist.” Find your grocery store, learn your public transportation routes, discover new restaurants and, if you feel up to it, meet a neighbor.
Journal in text or pictures. Keeping track of your schedule and reflecting on each day can reinforce routines. Writing in a journal can help you think through what you did each day and reduce the stress of trying so many new things. It can also help you remember what worked and what didn’t.
Do your research, involve your family and friends in the move, and get ready for some new adventures. Behind your new front door, you’ll have plenty of quiet space. Residents at communities like First Place–Phoenix know that once you step out and into a place of your own, new experiences and newfound confidence are sure to follow!
Exploring the neighborhood before moving is a good idea.
Setting routines can help ease your mind.
Creating a daily plan keeps you on track.
Making friends can take time.
Less clutter = less stress!
By Denise D. Resnik, Founder & President/CEO, First Place AZ
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. Congratulations to each of this year’s recipients—and thank you for recognizing First Place AZ as Non-Profit of the Year.
The experience was another reminder of why I LOVE my city and always have, exponentially building my appreciation for how it has grown along with my family and me.
The event at the Burton Barr Central Library, on formerly two-lane Central Avenue, brought back a wave of memories for me as a child, teen and young professional. It’s where I checked out my first book long before it was a five-story building. Just north is where I attended Central High School (go Bobcats!) and, in between, where I landed my first job at Del E. Webb Corporation, the granddaddy of senior housing.
Decades later, Phoenix continues to give me reasons to be proud and love it even more for how it supports and includes individuals from all generations, with all abilities and from all backgrounds. This is underscored by our flagship property First Place–Phoenix—strategically built in the heart of midtown—so residents could access a range of services, retail, restaurants and employment opportunities.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego for her tireless leadership and advocacy in ensuring Phoenix remains “the most autism-friendly city in the world” and accessible to the one in three residents who will live with a disability in their lifetimes. It’s been an honor to serve as a member of the City of Phoenix Strategic Work Group on Accessibility alongside city leaders and heroes from throughout the community.
Special thanks also go to fellow D.A.R.E. honoree Councilwoman Debra Stark, who co-chaired the work group and was one of the earliest city advocates of our big vision for housing and community development long before serving as an elected official.
Together, we continue building a city that serves as a global magnet for bright minds and businesses to flourish, and where everyone belongs—a city I’m proud to call home!
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.
Establishing housing and support systems for adults with autism and/or developmental disabilities (DD) takes creativity, tenacity and an openness to roads less traveled. With the diversity of needs, preferences, levels of support and access to resources, there is no GPS tool for a direct route to a single solution. Instead, think of this “how-to” guide as a roadmap with potential paths to desired destinations.
We will explore the essential steps and considerations for establishing housing and support systems for autistic adults and/or others with DD, drawing on the expertise and successful practices of First Place AZ, its collaborators and global community of organizations with similar missions. Whether you are a self-advocate, family member or professional, the goal of this guide is to provide you with insights and knowledge to create a supportive and inclusive living environment tailored to the individual’s unique needs.
If you have not yet read Preparing for Adulthood, start there before proceeding with these next steps.
Clarifying your housing goals and needs is a crucial first step. This process involves reassessing the individual’s level of support needs and desired service delivery model/s, identifying housing and development types preferred, and thinking about activities or community spaces most meaningful to them.
This process should be informed as much as possible by the adult with autism and/or DD. Engage the individual in discussions about their likes, dislikes and aspirations. Consider factors such as preferred living environment (urban, suburban or rural), proximity to family and friends, and access to recreational activities and public amenities. You can start this conversation by:
Starting a discussion about this major transition is important, whether planning for the immediate future or the next 10 years. To identify and document housing goals and needs, you can make a vision board or slide deck or write a social story illustrating the most important aspects of your loved one’s home, support and community connections. This may change over time, but the exercise will give you a general direction towards a destination.
Whether planning to rent or own a future home, thinking about who and how one is going to pay for housing often depends on if the family has additional resources. Special needs planners can assist with financial and legal planning to meet lifelong needs. The free resource The Arc’s Center for Future Planning can help you start.
For families who would like to purchase a home for their loved one, the Family Opportunity Mortgage may be a tool to explore. Many states also offer home buyer assistance programs targeting people with disabilities. Contact your state Housing and Finance Agency to inquire about these programs.
For those who will be renting, thinking about who may inquire about, sign and be approved for a lease is important. A study conducted by the U.S. Administration on Housing and Urban Development (HUD) indicates that people with disabilities face discrimination in up to 50% of rental inquiries. For properties like First Place–Phoenix that welcome adults with autism and/or DD as tenants, this risk dissipates. Learn about your rights and view the study on the HUD landing page for people with disabilities.
In the U.S., housing affordability is achieved through a combination of government programs, subsidies and policies designed to reduce housing costs for low-income persons and families. For those needing assistance to afford rent, check with your local Public Housing Authority to identify if you can get on a waiting list to access a housing choice voucher, especially inquiring if disability-specific mainstream or non-elderly disabled vouchers are available. Public Housing Authorities may also be able to advise if subsidized housing units are available.
Resources for housing assistance are extremely limited and most often do not target adults with autism and/or DD. Other sources, including Autism Housing Network mentioned earlier in this guide, may be available to help offset costs through public benefits.
More advocacy is needed in this space and The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation Fellowship at the First Place Global Leadership Institute is funding research to assist advocates across the country.
Once you have a clear understanding of the individual’s needs, preferences and financial guideposts, it’s time to refine your housing search. Some key considerations:
The goal is to foster an environment where adults with autism and/or DD have the supports they need to thrive, feel safe and achieve their potential.
One of the most critical components of a successful housing arrangement is the integration of support services. Coordination of assistance in daily living, both in the home and in the greater community, requires careful planning and consideration of various types of support systems:
At times, service providers or neuro-inclusive housing options have connections to research institutions. These collaborations strengthen resident support, assist in training the next generation of direct support professionals and advance the development of evidence-based practices. First Place–Phoenix residents further benefit from its collaborations with esteemed organizations like Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) and Creighton University Medical School. These partnerships have enabled First Place–Phoenix to leverage cutting-edge research and best practices, ensuring every individual receives the highest quality of care and support. By integrating the latest research and evidence-based practices into their programs, they continuously strive to improve the quality of life for adults with autism and/or DD.
This exciting life decision can also be overwhelming. Taking the time to pack, unpack and transition to full-time living outside of the family home does not need to happen all at once and should not be rushed. The goal is to find a balance of “leaving the nest” jitters and maladaptive anxiety. First Place AZ has one of the premiere post-secondary residential transition programs in the country with a wealth of experience in helping adults with autism and/or DD transition successfully into independent or supported living environments.
Here are a few key elements to remember:
For adults with autism and/or DD, this requires a combination of structured support, community engagement and confidence in their independent living skills. Life circumstances, routines and interests may change. Regular check-ins are important in these three areas:
One’s home is integral to life satisfaction. There may come a time for a needed shift, which may include a change in level of support, feelings of isolation or loneliness due to different location of natural supports—or maybe just a desire for a different living environment. First Place–Phoenix does not assume residents will stay in the apartment community over their lifespan—but that it may be simply their “first place.” on their own. Any changes needed should not be seen as failure but more as refinement.
With careful preparation and the right supports, adults with autism and/or DD can thrive in their own home. Families of neurodiverse individuals can make informed decisions about the most suitable housing options by clarifying needs, conducting financial planning, understanding support systems and finding the right community. By leveraging the expertise of organizations like First Place AZ and SARRC, and utilizing valuable resources such as the A Place in the World report, we can create a supportive and enriching environment that promotes independence, dignity and a sense of belonging for individuals with autism and/or DD.
We encourage you to reach out for a one-on-one discussion, explore other offerings and share this resource with others who may be on the same path. Together, we can create inclusive and supportive environments where individuals with autism and/or DD can find their place in the world.
Exploring life beyond the nest often comes with a strong sense of trepidation for adults with autism and/or neurodevelopmental disabilities. Yet, without a plan, families risk hasty decisions and potentially less than ideal outcomes. Deciding what may be the right housing option for you or your family member is a crucial step in developing and incentivizing greater independence. In this blog, we will explore the various housing choices available, providing a thorough comparison of each option’s benefits considerations and benefits. The goal is to give you a clear understanding of diverse housing and support solutions that best meet your needs or those of your loved one.
The transition to adulthood is an exciting and transformative journey filled with new experiences, opportunities and natural consequences for when things work out well or may not proceed as planned. As young adults navigate this period, they encounter challenges, including increased responsibilities, adult decision-making, social experiences in various adult contexts and the pursuit of a meaningful vocation or volunteer opportunities. These challenges present valuable opportunities for personal growth and development.
Having a home that provides a stable environment to decompress and recharge for the day ahead is key. Consider these three core elements when exploring living options:
Is this a location where I can do things I like? Is it accessible? Do I feel safe here? Can I afford it? Can I change service providers if needed in the future? If your gut says it isn’t a good fit, it may not be!
During this transition, individualized support is crucial to help young adults build the skills and confidence they need to thrive. Tailored guidance and resources can empower them to overcome obstacles, make informed choices and achieve goals. With personalized support, each young adult’s unique strengths and needs can be recognized and addressed, paving the way for successful and fulfilling adulthood. These supports can sometimes be paid for using a Medicaid-funded waiver, but this funding source often has waitlists and cannot be used to pay for housing, room or board.
What extras does the property offer that other typical, similar settings lack? Examples include planned social activities for residents, scheduled life skill classes, people to help you connect with activities and organizations in the community and an onsite concierge. Check out a few First Place–Phoenix videos highlighting these types of supportive amenities and planned activities.
By understanding whether the property is provider-controlled or consumer-controlled, you can determine who has the authority and control over living arrangements and support services. In provider-controlled housing, a service provider or agency owns or manages the housing and makes decisions about the living environment and support services. In consumer-controlled housing, the individual with disabilities or their family has control over the housing and selection of support services. Both models have their advantages and challenges; the optimum choice depends on the individual’s needs, preferences and level of independence.
Through the First Place Global Leadership Institute and its housing market analyses in cities across the country, we know location and access to transportation options are a key considerations since transportation is often listed as the top barrier to people engaging in their community and maintaining relationships. Other considerations include proximity to places within walking distance, a single public transit route or on-site access to transportation to the grocery store or services such as healthcare, education and recreational activities can enhance the individual’s quality of life and promote greater independence.
Options for individualized support services may be accessed through a variety of different service providers. A person could use remote support similar to telehealth, as well as smart-home devices for support without the need for another adult present in the home. They could have a live-in caregiver in a shared living arrangement or a host home. Staff could be scheduled and arrive as needed through self-direction or agency-based rotational staffing. Knowing what service delivery model may work best for you is key.
This varies greatly among individuals with autism and/or neurodevelopmental disabilities. Some may need 24/7 assistance, while others might only need drop-in support. Ensuring your service provider can meet your needs and shares your values helps ensure you receive the right level of assistance to thrive.
Community integration does not occur simply because someone lives in the middle of a city. It takes intentional support to build social connections and feel a sense of belonging. Natural support networks, including friends, neighbors and local organizations, can provide additional assistance and opportunities for social engagement, as well as that important layer of protection against those who may not have the best of intentions.
A group home is typically a provider-controlled setting where a service provider or agency recruits, trains and schedules staff for multiple residents with disabilities in a single-family home. All residents use the same service provider and share on-site staff who are available 24/7.
The provider controls the housing and manages the property for residents. This model can offer more structured and constant support but may limit personal choice and flexibility.
Residents may have less autonomy in choosing their roommates or support staff. If they want to change their service provider due to preference or change of their level of support, they will have to leave the home.
Supported living in neuro-inclusive planned communities refers to housing models designed to accommodate the unique needs of individuals with autism and and/or neurodevelopmental disabilities. These properties provide a supportive environment where residents can live independently while having access to additional resources. They may be consumer-controlled with supportive amenities or provider controlled.
Designed with neurodiverse adults in mind, properties often include sensory-friendly design and a range of supportive amenities. Existing partnerships may offer additional vocational training opportunities and access to healthcare.
Properties may or may not include neurotypical residents. Not all properties may have 2+-bedroom units, which can be a restrictive factor for a live-in caregiver. Such options are very limited and often have long waiting lists.
Independent living in a scattered-site setting enables an autistic adult and/or their family to find an affordable home in the community and organize their preferred service delivery model and service provider. As a consumer-controlled setting, individuals tailor this living arrangement and support to their specific needs and preferences.
Greater personal choice of location, which can offer continuity of one’s natural support system built over time. Also adds the potential to bequeath or add an accessory dwelling unit to the family home. For those who love their neighborhood and have the means to do so, a homeownership option may be a more stable long-term choice.
Appropriate housing can be difficult to secure and accommodations for sensory or cognitive disability may not be readily available in a rental scenario. Rates of loneliness are high, even with autistic adults living with those closest to them in their family home, particularly once parents are no longer present to facilitate social interaction.
Use the worksheets in the A Place in the World report to begin documenting needs, preferences and goals for future living arrangements. Reference the list of options presented in the body of the report.
Visit potential housing options to get a feel for the environment, amenities and community. Talk to current residents about their experiences.
Engage your case managers, therapists and service providers to offer guidance and support throughout the transition process.
Plan for future needs by talking to a local special needs planner, contacting The Arc’s Center for Future Planning or opening an ABLE account, which allows individuals with disabilities to save or invest money without paying taxes on earnings.
Make it fun! Create a slide deck, write a story or make a vision board to start outlining the steps, timeline and resources needed for such an important move. Include milestones and contingency opportunities in your plan.
Offer encouragement and reassurance to help ease anxiety and build confidence. Avoid pressure and ultimatums.
Help with researching housing options, scheduling tours and consulting with experts.
If applicable, stop doing your loved one’s dishes and laundry, two key skills needed to live independently. Supporting your family member with autism and/or neurodevelopmental disabilities in developing other essential life skills such as hygiene, cooking, cleaning and managing finances as appropriate are also important ways to help.
Self-advocacy is critical, but not everyone can speak for themselves. Speak up on behalf of your loved one or client.
Encourage your loved one to take an active role in decision-making, ensuring their voice is heard and respected even if it means they must take a risk and potentially “fail forward.”
Teach self-advocacy skills. This includes effective identification and expression of their needs, preferences and concerns.
To the extent possible, adults with autism and/or neurodevelopmental disabilities should be part of every step of the planning process to ensure they feel ownership and control over their transition.
Fostering a supportive environment can help individuals successfully transition to their new home away from home, gaining the confidence and skills they need to thrive on their own.
There is no right or wrong path to housing. After you take the opportunity to understand the benefits and considerations of every option, you may find multiple solutions from which to choose. Early planning is essential to ensure securing a preferred housing model that aligns with an individual’s needs and preferences. By taking the time to assess various options and involving the individual in the decision-making process, you can open the door to supportive and empowering living environments.
We encourage you to explore the resources and housing programs offered by First Place–Phoenix. Years of experience and collaboration with clinically rooted organizations like Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center enables First Place to provide valuable support on the exciting, rewarding journey toward independence.
