August 2026 | ISSUE 228

5 Reasons to Bring a Friend

to Spectrum of Dreams

Spectrum of Dreams is more than a talent show!

This unique original event is an evening of celebration, connection, and inspiration for our local autism community that leaves a lasting impact on everyone in the room. Here are five reasons to invite a friend and experience it together:

1. You'll be inspired by incredible talent!

From music and storytelling to art and athletic achievement, Spectrum of Dreams showcases the unique gifts, passions, and accomplishments of neurodivergent individuals. Every performance offers something new and memorable.

2. You'll experience a truly welcoming atmosphere!

One of the things that makes Spectrum of Dreams special is the encouragement that fills the room. Every performer is met with enthusiastic applause, creating an environment where people feel supported, celebrated, and valued.

3. You'll hear stories behind the talent!

Each participant brings more than a performance to the stage. They bring experiences, determination, creativity, and personal journeys that make the evening meaningful and inspiring.

4. You'll be part of a community coming together!

Families, friends, advocates, and supporters gather to celebrate the strengths and contributions of neurodivergent individuals. It's a chance to connect with others who believe in inclusion, acceptance, and opportunity for all.

5. You'll leave with memories that stay with you!

From proud smiles and standing ovations to unexpected moments of joy, Spectrum of Dreams has a way of creating experiences people remember long after the final applause.

Join us on September 26 at The Madison Center for the Arts and see why Spectrum of Dreams is quickly becoming one of our community's most inspiring events! Bring a friend, share the experience & help us celebrate the many talents that make our community stronger!

For information about sponsorship opportunities,

please contact Events@AZAunited.org

Sign up for our Live AAC Webinar

Join us virtually on September 11 at 12PM for an overview of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) designed for parents and professionals. This session will be presented by Ally Malone, B.A., SLPA, who has more than 12 years of experience in pediatric therapy services with a specialization in autism and AAC, and Emily Heisler, M.S., CCC-SLP, a licensed speech-language pathologist in Arizona with 10 years of experience and expertise in early intervention, autism, AAC, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

This event includes FREE CEUs for Attendant Care providers!



Participants will learn how to identify when an AAC communication device may be beneficial, understand the role of AAC in supporting long-term communication development, and explore the process of obtaining an AAC device. The session will also dispel common myths about AAC and provide practical strategies for supporting effective AAC use across settings.

AZA's Founder Discusses Ethical Services

Dr. Aaron Blocher-Rubin, Founder & CEO of AZA United, recently shared AZA United's perspective on ethical, family-centered autism services at two national industry conferences. Speaking to leaders from across the behavioral health and autism sectors, he emphasized the importance of service models that put the needs of individuals and families ahead of financial priorities and business growth.

At the OPEN MINDS Service Excellence Institute, Dr. Blocher-Rubin participated in a panel discussion examining the pros and cons of private equity investment in autism services. He highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards of care, protecting clinical integrity, and ensuring that decisions are guided by the best interests of children and families. He also spoke at the Autism Investor Summit, where he joined a panel focused on how smaller providers can make a significant impact within their communities through innovation, strong values, and personalized support.

Across the country, autism and ABA providers have faced growing public scrutiny regarding service quality, ethical practices, and the influence of profit-driven business models. As a nonprofit organization, AZA United remains deeply committed to helping as many families as possible through individualized, evidence-based supports that reflect each family's unique priorities and goals. Our mission has always been centered on compassionate care, meaningful outcomes, and long-term relationships with the families we serve.

AZA United is proud to be a leading voice in promoting ethical practices and raising care standards throughout the autism services field. Dr. Blocher-Rubin and the AZA team remain committed to sharing our message nationally. We believe that high-quality, evidence-based care should always be guided by the needs of individuals and families, ensuring that every child receives support that is meaningful, effective, and respectful of their unique strengths and needs.

For more insight on this subject, follow Dr. Blocher-Rubin on LinkedIn

Join AZA United for the Cardinals Climb

Arizona Autism United is very excited to be participating this year in the Arizona Cardinals Foundation Cardinals Climb at State Farm Stadium on February 20, 2027. Participants will hike a trail-inspired course throughout the stadium, with routes available for a range of ages and abilities, all while raising funds to support Arizona's special needs community. 

We'd love for you to join Team AZA! Whether you're climbing, fundraising, supporting a teammate, or simply helping spread the word, every participant helps make a difference. This is a great opportunity to come together, support an important cause, and represent AZA while giving back to our community. To register, click the link below and join our team, Arizona Autism United.

Sign up by August 31 to get early bird pricing!

Other Announcements & Resources

Disability Employment Resources

The Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council lists on their website these Pathways to the Future resources which are meant to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) navigate through transition points in employment and other areas. Learn more here.

SARRC's YES Day Event

Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) is excited to celebrate the 6th annual YES Day Walk for Autism® with our supportive community on Sunday, October 25! Opening Ceremonies begin at 9 AM with an instructor-led stretch session to warm up our attendees for the Walk. Following the walk, participants can enjoy all that our fifth annual event has to offer! To join AZA United's team, click here. 

Programs & Services for Families

AZA United offers a wide variety of therapies, programs and services for individuals of all ages. Click on any of the links below to request help or view all available services here.

Habilitation, Respite & Attendant Care

ABA Therapy

Speech Therapy

Occupational Therapy

Diagnostic Evaluations

AAC Evaluations (Communication Devices)

Psychotherapy for Individuals & Families

Complex Care Services (Clinical Family Coaching)

Family Support

Job Opportunities with Team AZA

AZA United is a growing organization and we are always hiring great people to join our team! Click on any of the featured jobs below to learn more or view all job openings here.

ABA Behavior Technician

Our ABA Treatment Services team is growing, and we are hiring! We offer ABA services in-home throughout the valley, as well as our interdisciplinary children's therapy clinics in Mesa & Avondale, the East Valley Center and West Valley Center.

Direct Support Provider (DDD Services)

If you or someone you know is interested in providing in-home care services for individuals with developmental disabilities, apply for a position as a Habilitation, Respite & Attendant Care provider. This role is available statewide and is a great opportunity to gain experience and make a difference.

Parent Provider - Habilitation & Attendant Care

AZA United helps eligible parents become DDD providers for their own child through the Parents as Paid Caregivers program, where parents are able to provide Habilitation and Attendant Care Services.

AZA United's Annual Report

Arizona Autism United | 602-773-5773 | www.AZAunited.org