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News & Updates

 

January 2026

Happy New Year

 

Happy New Year from the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix!

 

Community Partner

 

At AZ Aspire Academy, we provide a comprehensive K–12 educational experience designed specifically for students with exceptionalities. Through our unique one-to-one and small-group instructional model, students receive individualized support in a structured, nurturing learning environment. Students work daily with certified special education teachers who understand their unique learning needs and provide consistent, personalized instruction. Our flexible programs allow students to thrive whether learning on campus, off campus, or online.

 

Waymo Recap

 

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Waymo Focus Group! It was fascinating to hear from Waymo about all the great features they have to offer, including safety and accessible settings, customized seat spacing, temperature and music settings. It was so great to hear feedback and suggestions from participants. We greatly appreciate you sharing such valuable input that will truly make a nationwide impact! We even had the chance to take a test drive. Thank you to Peter Schwarz, Vice President of Affiliate Relations from Autism Society of America for joining us!

 

Jump Into the New Year

 

Kensone Fitness Trampoline has generously donated 3 brand new trampolines to the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix! These trampolines are great for exercise and are great to meet your sensory needs. They are suitable for all ages. This contest is open to Arizona residents only and is intended for Autistic individuals. Assembly is required.


Enter to win by January 25th. Use the button below to enter and to view complete contest details.

 

Highlights

Check out some highlights from our recent events. We had so much fun connecting with you!


Did you know that our events are free or low cost?


Thank you to our supporters who help make these memories possible!

Share YOUR highlights with us! Now you have the chance to share your memorable moments from Autism Society of Greater Phoenix events that you have attended by filling out the simple form below. You will have the chance to upload up to 2 photos.

 

Caregiver Support Groups

 

Connect with other parents & caregivers on this journey! Share your challenges, successes and gain support. Each group is led by the parent of an Autistic child. Join us at one or all of our groups!

NEW DAY FOR 2026- now the 2nd Monday!


When:
Monday, Jan.12th

Time: 6:30 - 7:30 PM

Where: Online via Zoom



Led by Carolyn Sostrom

When: Friday, Jan. 9th

Time: 9:30 - 11 AM

Where: Panera Bread

3rd St & Bell Rd


Led by Cynthia Cypher

When: Friday, Jan. 9th

Time: 9:30 - 11 AM

Where: Panera Bread

Guadalupe & McClintock


Led by Rachel Lack

 

When: Thursday, Jan. 15th

Time: 6:30 - 8:00 PM

Where: Panera Bread Happy Valley Rd & Norterra Parkway


Led by Angela & Michael Ajamie

When: Tues., Jan. 13th

Time: 10:00 - 11:30 AM

Where: Spencer's Place in Surprise



Led by ASGP Staff

Fecha: Miércoles, 28 de enero

Hora: 10 – 11AM

Lugar: En línea a través de Zoom


Esta reunión está dirigida por Terry Perez

 

When: Wednesday, January 7th

Time: 7:30 – 8:30 PM

Where: Online via Zoom


Gain support from anywhere! Registration is required to receive the meeting link.


This meeting is led by ASGP staff

When: Tuesday, January 20th

Time: 10 AM - 11 AM

Where: Online via Zoom


Gain support from anywhere! Registration is required to receive the meeting link.


This meeting is led by ASGP staff

 

Moms Night Out


When: Saturday, January 17th

Time: 6 - 8 PM

Where: Native Grill & Wings Glendale

Cost: $5 per attendee


This is for moms of Autistic children of any age. The Autism Society of Greater Phoenix will be providing appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages. Attendees will be responsible for additional individual costs. Registration is required and is limited due to seating limitations.



Led by Diana Castro

Dads Support Group


When: Sunday, January 25th

Time: 7:30 - 8:30 PM

Where: Online via Zoom


This group is for dads of Autistic children of any age. Gain support from anywhere!



Led by Dave Taylor & Ryan Douglas

 

Online Trainings

 

Transition 101: Come and learn about the services and resources that are available after high school and into adulthood.


When: Thursday, January 8th

Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Where: Online via Zoom

Autism 101: Come and learn about how to navigate the systems of care in Arizona. Perfect for newly diagnosed, families new to Arizona or those needing a refresher!


When: Tues., January 20th

Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM

Where: Online via Zoom

 

Community Partner

 

We’re excited to now serve North Phoenix families through our home- and community-based ABA therapy program. Skip the wait for ABA services and access personalized, 1:1 support for children 13 and under — provided in meaningful settings like home, school, or the community. To learn more, visit autismcenter.org/Comprehensive or contact our team at (602) 606-9806.

 
 

Autistic Adult Groups

 

These groups are for Autistic adults. Diagnosis is not necessary. Come and connect with other adults to share your experiences and opinions in a safe and nonjudgmental space. These groups may feature an educational component, followed by time for socialization.

ONLINE support group for ages 30+.


When: Saturday, January 10th

Time: 1 - 3 PM

Where: Online via Zoom


Led by Sue Golubock & Tara Marshall

IN PERSON Support group for ages 17-35.

When: Saturday, January 31st

Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Where: Foothills Christian Church of Glendale


Led by Dawn Oliver

ONLINE support group for Late Diagnosed Adults, ages 40+.


When: Thursday, January 22nd

Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Where:
Online via Zoom

IN PERSON support group for ages 30+.

When: Saturday, January 24th

Time: 1 - 3 PM

Where: Friendship Village of Tempe


Led by Sue Golubock & Thomas Shaw

Autistic Adult Meetup

Join us for a social meetup in the West Valley! Gather with old and new friends to make connections and have fun. Pizza and refreshments will be provided at this meetup. This group is intended for Autistic adults who are 20+ years old. Registration is required. 


Location change for January meeting!


When: Saturday, January 3rd

Time: 12:30 – 2:30 PM

Where: Peoria Women's Club

Cost: $5 per attendee


Led by Teri Beardsley

 
 

LEGO Club

 

Come and play: We supply the LEGOs and you bring the creativity! Parents must supervise their children. This club is free and open to the whole family. All ages and abilities are welcome! This club is now offering board games too.

Offered in partnership with the City of Goodyear Adaptive Program.


Led by Sarah Blank


When: Friday, January 16th

Time: 6 - 7:30 PM

Where: Goodyear Recreation Campus

 

Virtual Game Night

 

Teens ages 12 -19, join us for Virtual Game Night! We will be playing Super Smash Brothers Ultimate on the Switch each month. This is a safe and monitored session only available to those that register.


When: Monday, January 26th

Time: 6 - 7:30 PM

Where: Online gaming via the Nintendo Switch System


Led by Sonya Hernandez

 

Community Partners

 
 

The Outsiders Club

 

Connect in the great outdoors with the Outsiders Club! This club is hosted by the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix and is open to all ages and abilities. Gather with old and new friends, as we take on exciting adventures like participating in community events, hiking or easy walks in the park. Let’s enjoy all that mother nature has to offer together. Led by Erica Smith.

The Outsiders are partnering with High Country Adaptive Sports for adaptive skiing lessons. Due to terrain conditions, this event was rescheduled for February.


When: Sunday, February 8, 2026

Where: Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff

Time: Choose from half day 9:30 AM – 12 PM or full day 9:30 AM – 3 PM

Cost: $93-$170. This is a great value as a normal full day with lift ticket is $300.


HCAS is an approved ESA Vendor. Please contact us at info@phxautism.org if you want to use ESA funding to reserve your spot!


Limited spots are available! Registration is required and includes instruction, all ski gear needed and a lift ticket! Registration will close 1/30 or once sold out, whichever comes first.

The Outsiders have created a team for the ZooWalk to raise money for Autism research! Fundraising is encouraged but not required.

 

When: Saturday, February 14th, 2026

Where: Phoenix Zoo

Time: 7:00 AM

Cost: Rates depend on age 

*Child or adult with ASD are FREE

*Child (3-12 years): $10

*Teen (13-17 years): $20

*Adult: $30



Registration is done through the ZooWalk website. Use the ticket button below to join our team: ASGP Outsiders Club.

Cardinals Climb


Join us for the inaugural Cardinals Climb fundraising event! The Cardinals Climb is a Hike for Special Needs hosted by the Arizona Cardinals. This event benefits disability organizations. Fundraising is encouraged. Up to $15,000 raised by our team will directly benefit ASGP!

 

There are multiple trails to choose from for all skill levels. You are welcome to do any trail option. Most of our team will be doing the Family Trail. Explore trail options here. You can view all event details, including the event timeline here. There is even an option to participate virtually from anywhere. Together We Climb Higher!

 

When: Saturday, February 21st, 2026

Where: State Farm Stadium in Glendale

Time: 10:00 AM

Cost: Rates depend on age and site preference

*Kids under 5 years old are free

*Kids ages 5-18 are $25 each

*Adults are $50

*Off-site Climbers are $250


There are some great incentives offered that you can view here. All participants receive a t-shirt, goodie bag, finishing medal, light refreshments and post party access.



Registration is done through the Cardinals Climb website. Use the ticket button below to join our team: Autism Society of Greater Phoenix.

 

Celebrate Like a Wolf

 

Celebrate Autism Acceptance Month with us at Great Wolf Lodge!


Receive a special rate from April 25-27th when you reserve your room by Thursday, March 26, 2026! Great Wolf Lodge is fun for all ages. Discounted room rates of $219 for up to 4 guests, additional guest is $50 per person. Additional discounted fees will apply as applicable. Make your reservation using the button below or by calling 1-888-962-9653. You must use code 2604PHXA when making your reservation! Valid only at the Scottsdale, AZ location. Come have a fun weekend with other Neurodiverse individuals and their families!

 

Become a Sponsor

 

Does your organization value empowering the Autism community?

Corporations, schools and agencies are key partners in helping the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix provide support, education, information, programs and hope to families living with Autism. Companies and agencies that partner with us demonstrate their commitment to individuals with Autism to their clients, employees and the community. Contact us at info@PHXautism.org to see how we can partner! We have sponsorship opportunities available to meet all your needs, including newsletter, website and exclusive events sponsorship for 2026! Connect with us today!

Resource Corner

 

Therapy Providers


New year, new therapy provider needed? Thanks to recommendations from members of the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix, we have compiled a list of professional services and providers in Arizona, and some in other states, who work with individuals and families on the Autism Spectrum. Get connected to an agency that can offer your family support today!

 

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2024 Autism Society of America Affiliate of the Year