Envisioned as a residential community development that aspires to catalyze international models, First Place® offers supportive housing and a residential transition program for individuals with autism and for other neurodiverse populations, as well as sites for education, training, and creative inspiration.  

Website: https://www.firstplaceaz.org/

Contact them form: https://www.firstplaceaz.org/transition-academy/registration/

Facebook: @FirstPlaceAZ 

Twitter: @FirstPlaceAZ  

First Place–Phoenix is the culmination of nearly two decades of dedicated research, travel, and ideation. One of their noteworthy major studies is Opening Doors: A Discussion of Residential Options for Adults Living with Autism and Related Disorders, which offers a detailed look at market demands and pressing concerns, residential models, goals, guidelines, and much more.  

Denise and I discuss the (3) components of First Place:    

Apartments - there are (55) units, with floor plans ranging from studios to four bedrooms. Each floor has its own design. They offer each resident a planning session and life skills training. It's designed to house up to 75 residents.      

Transition Academy - a 2-year tuition-based program, operated by Southwest Autism and Research Center (SARRC). It's designed for adults on the Spectrum. It teaches 32 courses (Learn 4 Independence), and participants earn a certificate in life skills from Gateway Community College upon completion.

Global Leadership Institute - focused on pressing concerns for accessibility to more community, housing, and independent living options for individuals with autism and other neurodiverse disabilities. It serves as a multidisciplinary, hands-on training center for professionals, educators, support staff, and medical personnel, as well as a robust site for research and advancements in public policy.  

Denise is the founder and president/CEO of First Place AZ (established in 2012), co-founder of the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC, established in 1997), and founder and CEO of DRA Collective, a marketing/communications firm (established in 1986) that serves clients in a variety of fields, including real estate, economic development, healthcare, education, and hospitality.  

"In a Different Key" (movie): https://www.inadifferentkeythemovie.com/

"In a Different Key" (book): https://amzn.to/3GK56ct 

Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center: https://www.autismcenter.org/ 

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