Newsletter – March 2025

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New film series inspiring change.

As we plan for Dimensions™️ 2025, the 14th First Place Global Symposium October 15–17 in Phoenix, we’re also sharing a brand-new, extraordinary series titled “Love, Courage &.” Take a look and listen to some of the powerful voices we need to hear on this journey together. Then take advantage of the Early Bird discount and register!

S-A-V-E the D-A-T-E for the 2025 First Place musical.

Don’t miss another live, musical and delightfully engaging performance by First Place–Phoenix resident actors and ASU’s Design & Arts Corps! Mark your calendars for “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” on Friday, April 12 at 7 p.m. or Saturday, April 13 at 2 p.m. It’s all made possible by our supportive community partner Arizona Commission on the Arts. Can you spell F-U-N? Purchase your tickets today!

Deduct from your taxes. Add to their lives.

When you donate your tax credit to First Place® AZ, you support innovative programs that can change the lives of adults with autism and/or developmental disabilities.

Arizona’s tax credit lets you give to qualifying nonprofits like First Place AZ—and gives you a dollar-for-dollar credit on your state taxes.

Up to $470 for individuals

Up to $938 for couples filing jointly

First Place AZ Qualified Charity Organization (QCO) code: 22163

First Place AZ empowers adults with autism and/or developmental disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. Help us continue helping them build the essential life skills they need to flourish at home, at work and among friends.

Skill Up Arizona offers unique career pathways.

Skill Up Arizona’s Uniquely Abled Academy at GateWay Community College in Phoenix is transforming lives and industries by training neurodiverse adults to succeed in precision manufacturing careers. As a committed collaborator, First Place AZ Director of Employment & Workforce Development Natasha Grant Holmberg was on hand when students showed off their skills for potential employers at a recent open house.

World Down Syndrome Day on March 21.

This month, First Place–Phoenix honored resident Julia on this day established by the United Nations to raise awareness of and support those with Down syndrome. We think there’s no better advocate than Julia, who participates in various weekly Community Life activities—all on top of her job at Arizona Country Club and volunteering at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

“Visit” Rochester, New York in the latest HMA.

The Rochester, New York Housing Market Analysis (HMA) has arrived! Research & Public Policy Writer Avery Mickens of the First Place Global Leadership Institute shares some of the compelling data—including details on respondent support needs and the challenges they face—in this informative video. Download your own copy of the latest HMA here!

On the go with a lively community life!

Paint the Town, an organization that provides fun, artistic group activities, recently guided residents through a project of creating refrigerator magnet canvases—each depicting a colorful cactus—for their apartments.

Turnout was high one March afternoon for a Greek cooking session—lamb and chicken gyros with all the fixings—on the Joey’s Grill Patio. Ever-popular Chef Titina stepped hungry residents through the prep and assembly of fresh, delicious self-made masterpieces. OPA!

Nothing says community like a block party! Residents headed out on a recent weekend to enjoy some gorgeous spring weather. They didn’t have to go far to find “Sunday Off Central, 2025,” where they checked out local crafts and enjoyed a bite among the booths.

 

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