Newsletter – January 2026

First Place Global’s Vote the Spectrum team had a successful experience at the Arizona Cardinals’ inaugural Civics Matters Summit this month. More than 5,000 middle and high school students and their teachers engaged in civic learning, exploring how state and local government work and how participation takes many forms. Such events reflect where Vote the Spectrum is headed next: meeting people where they are, making civic learning approachable and building pathways for ongoing engagement. More to come!

Lunch with Legislators event leaves attendees hungry for more!

The Disability Advocacy Policy Alliance held a “Lunch with Legislators” to amplify self-advocate voices and create space for direct dialogue with policymakers on issues shaping daily life for individuals with disabilities. First Place–Phoenix residents and staff attended to highlight lived experience and inform policymakers on core priorities across housing, education, health and human services, and employment. First Place–Phoenix attendees representing District 5 also met with their Senator Lela Alston.

Be Ready^® is ready for you!

Your unique interests are worth recognizing. Imagine bringing that curiosity, focus and creativity into a paying job! First Place’s Be Ready Jobseekers employment readiness program channels your passion into workplace success. Turn what you love into what you do!

Setting the stage for 2026: “How to Get Away with a Murder Mystery”

January ushers in the new year—along with rehearsals for the annual First Place–Phoenix theater performance made possible by a Lifelong Arts Engagement Grant from Arizona Commission on the Arts. Residents recently gathered with a volunteer grad student from ASU’s Design & Arts Corps to discuss details and roles for the 2026 production of the comedy whodunit, “How to Get Away with a Murder Mystery.” They also got into the stage spirit with some very entertaining role-playing. See you for the big night on Friday, April 10 at Phoenix Theater Company—and stay tuned for ticket info!

Community Life—alive & well at First Place–Phoenix!

Residents and Hunkapi Farms horses recently met on a clear, crisp January morning for a stroll around the corral. Straight from the horse’s mouth: Both appreciated the helpful guidance from ever encouraging and kind Hunkapi staff!

You’ll feel more relaxed and at peace just by tuning into this short video. Donna Lewen, valued volunteer yoga and tai chi instructor, recently led residents through some breath work, meditation and sound healing using singing bowls and other instruments. N”ahhh”maste.

For International LEGO Day, we connected with Jamie—one of many LEGO enthusiasts at First Place–Phoenix. Standing in our very own LEGO Lounge, he pieced together his passion by showing off some of his favorite builds.

K2 Adventures and First Place—together through the years.

Through their bountiful generosity, kindness and creativity, longtime friends and champions at K2 Adventures Foundation have helped make countless powerful experiences possible for First Place–Phoenix residents. Thank you, K2, for all you do to teach and motivate us all!

And speaking of K2, the Cox Community Room fills up fast when they visit with the latest clever craft idea. This month, residents chose various sizes and colors of circles and hearts to create their very own framed masterpieces. Who knew what a little glue could do?

Residents step up to the challenge.

The second Wednesday in January means it’s National Take the Stairs Day—which is most every day at First Place–Phoenix. Residents like David use their four-story community for the ongoing Vertical Miles Stair Challenge. Up or down, every step is in the right direction!

Welcome, new board members!

First Place AZ is starting 2026 with five new distinguished board members! We’re thrilled to announce the election of:

• Evelyn Casuga, nonprofit advocate and Director of Community & Economic Prosperity at the Center for the Future of Arizona
• David Gregory, New Jersey-based retired healthcare advisory tax and assurance principal with a 30-year career
• Mary-Sara Jones, Arizona-based health and social care leader who has been transforming care for more than 25 years
• Brigadier General José D. Rivera, USA, Ret., Senior Operations Executive, whose 30-year career spans high-impact leadership roles with U.S. Army Central
• Karen Starbowski, Arizona-based financial planner who has dedicated the past 14 years to supporting families in the special needs community.

We’re fortunate to work with local and global thought leaders in economic development, health, housing and financial planning committed to fueling a new generation of housing, healthcare and community options for those we love!

Learn4Independence® is the comprehensive, 32-course curriculum that puts adults with autism on the path to greater independence. To learn more, sign up for the next Discover Day on Thursday, February 5.