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Social skills are a big part of independent living. With this in mind, First Place–Phoenix residents attended “Social Savvy” workshops to fine-tune the many ways they interact with themselves and others. The festive finale was their first-ever “Spring Soirée”—a magical evening that included a cheerful get-ready gathering, formal dinner, then dessert and dancing. It was a chance to refine their skills—and a special, sparkling spring soirée for all! |
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First Place–Phoenix community life: summer meals, summer plans—and suncatchers! |
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Residents eased into summer with another delicious visit from Chef Titina. Everyone pitched in by chopping and grilling before sitting down together to a meal of seasoned lamb chops with fresh sides of tabouli salad and fruit. Summer plans were also shared, with residents looking forward to time with family and friends, new movies in cool theaters—and lots of time spent in the pool! |
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Residents let their creativity shine through when they gathered in the Space to Create to craft colorful suncatchers using glass gems. Led by always artful First Place Recreational Specialist Sarah Trow, they created luminous, one-of-a-kind expressions to light up their apartments. Brilliant! |
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New First Place/SARRC license plate drives support for autism. |
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When the “Support Autism” license plates arrived at First Place–Phoenix, Director of Property Relations Kim Monette couldn’t wait to get them attached to our vehicles. Order yours and help fund the collaborative work of First Place AZ and Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) so more individuals with autism can receive the services and support they need and deserve. |
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Autistic Pride Day + Pride Month |
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Autism self-advocates, allies and friends at First Place–Phoenix joined the world in recognizing Autistic Pride Day on June 18. Pride is an emotion we all share—and it got its due that day in recognition of the importance of its place in prompting positive change for us all. “Pride First” for Pride Month recently took center stage at First Place–Phoenix, where residents and staff added their own personal flair to the colorful gathering. From painting “pride” rocks and making flags to decorating tote bags and jazzing up jewelry—all commemorated the myriad contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. First Place Director of Employment & Workforce Development Natasha Grant Holmberg said it best: “The goal today is about embracing your pride, being inclusive, and making sure everyone feels safe and supported.” |
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Anticipation is a trip—and the destination can be quite rewarding! |
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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. On a recent trip to Disneyland with her family, First Place AZ Founder and President/CEO Denise D. Resnik spent time contemplating during the few quiet moments before anticipating the next rousing thrill. |
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“Love, Courage &” film series leads to Dimensions™ 2025. |
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“Love, Courage &” from the First Place Global Leadership Institute continues with two more important voices: that of the tireless Amanda Gioia, ardent autism activist and Ryan’s mom; and the resilient, resourceful Marimo Berk, co-founder of Creekside School in San Jose, California and Derek’s mom. Both women and all the other courageous leaders in this series represent the kinds of voices you’ll hear in October at Dimensions™ 2025, First Place Global’s annual symposium. Register by Thursday, Aug. 14 to take advantage of the 20% early-bird discount! |
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News from the First Place Global Leadership Institute. |
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The Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) believes everyone has abilities to contribute and that their work should be recognized and rewarded with fair pay—the outcome being more inclusive workplaces. APSE’s national “Day on the Hill” is an important opportunity to engage lawmakers and policymakers—making it the perfect time for Natasha Grant Holmberg, First Place Director of Employment & Workforce Development, and Kaylah McGown, First Place Education Coordinator, to be in Washington D.C. “This was our time to advocate on behalf of individuals with disabilities and let our lawmakers know what is impacting their constituents,” said Natasha. |
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When First Place AZ joined a panel discussion at the recent One Voice Conference hosted by the American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry in Phoenix, many important voices were heard—including those of several powerful self-advocates. Joined by First Place Associate Director of Public Policy Josh Munoz, resident and self-advocate and First Place–Phoenix resident Harry Goralnik joined a panel focused on improving access, empathy and outcomes for individuals with autism and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities. Harry emphasized the importance of lived experience in shaping meaningful change. |
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First Place voice for neurodivergence in communities of color. |
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This month, Grant Harris, neurodiversity champion and featured speaker at the upcoming First Place Global Symposium, hosted a very special guest on his popular podcast, Changing Minds & Changing Lives. Natasha Grant Holmberg, First Place Director of Employment & Workforce Development, joined Harris for a discussion entitled, “Seen But Not Heard: Neurodivergence in Communities of Color.” Along with Ian Gibbs-Hall, founder of Sonder Curiosity Architects, they discussed what it’s like to be seen for the color of your skin—but misunderstood for the way your mind works. Well done, Natasha! |
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