March 2025 | ISSUE 211

Highlights from our 4th Annual Run for Autism

AZA United recently hosted our 4th Annual Run for Autism at Kiwanis Park in Tempe. We had over 450 individuals participate, and 27 teams gather together to celebrate autism and neurodiversity community awareness and acceptance! We want to sincerely thank each and every participant and volunteer that leant their support to make this event a success. We would also like to thank our sponsor, Core Chiropractic, for their generous contribution to help make this event possible. Lastly, thank you to Scooter's Coffee, TruFru, TDP Bakery, Pose N Freeze Photo Booth, and Mikey's League for donating their goods and services for participants! We are proud to say that this community awareness event raised funds through sponsorships and donations to support our expansion of programs to reach more underserved families across the state of Arizona.



Children enjoyed the Kid's Dash, mascot race, lawn games, and group warm-up! To see some highlights of the event, click on the link to watch our recap video. Hope to see you there next year!

Still Time to Claim Your 2024 Tax Credit

As we are preparing for tax season, keep in mind that a great way to give back with no cost to yourself is by taking advantage of the Arizona Charitable Organization Tax Credit. That means you can get a 100% refund for your contribution!

Many of the families we serve face unimaginable challenges every day, and you can help! By directing your tax dollars to AZA United, you support programs for families with diverse types of needs. These programs allow children to acquire basic daily skills, like taking their first steps, saying their first words, preparing their first meal independently, and graduating from school. You also support programs to help children learn appropriate behavior so they can live fulfilling lives at home and be integrated in the community.

Arizona Autism United is qualified through the state of Arizona for the Charitable Organization Tax Credit. This unique program allows donors to receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit up to $470 for individuals or $938 for married couples for 2024. You can decide how your tax dollars impact the community when you make a contribution to AZA United and receive a refund when you file your taxes. It's that easy!

Overcoming Challenges and Nurturing Grasp Development

In the journey of childhood development, grasp skills play a pivotal role in shaping a child's ability to interact with the world around them. However, for children with autism, navigating grasp development can present unique challenges, requiring tailored interventions and support. Recognizing the significance of early intervention, this blog suggests into home-based activities designed to empower grasp development in children on the autism spectrum.

To continue reading this blog post, please click the link below.

Other Announcements & Resources

Save the Date for Arizona Gives Day

Each year, Arizona residents join forces to support nonprofits focused on making a difference in the community. On April 1st, and you are invited to support local families impacted by autism for Arizona Gives Day. Your support is an investment in their future!

When you make a donation to AZA United, you are helping our valley-wide and statewide expansion initiatives to reach more underserved Arizona families. Funds raised will contribute to the opening of a new center in the Northwest valley, expansion of services in Tucson & Prescott areas, and a wide variety of programs designed to provide children and families the skills needed to succeed.

MAKE Mama AAC Workshop

An AZA United parent will be hosting an AAC Workshop on April 26 from 10AM-1PM. Attendees will have access to group training, a group Q & A session, one-on-one Q & A and consulting, an AAC device review, meet many SLPs and experts, meet AAC mamas, food and drink, and swag items. Click here for more information and to register.

Arizona Author Book Festival

Bring your friends and family to the Arizona Author Book Festival on April 27, 2025, in Phoenix. The free family-friendly event was created to boost literacy, build community, and support autism acceptance. The festival will include more than 30 authors, book signings, children’s story time and crafts, food, music, author presentations, and more. The first 1,500 children in attendance will receive a free book, and all adults will receive a free tote bag! The festival is a fundraiser for SEEDs for Autism and will take place on their campus. SEEDs is a nonprofit organization that provides education, social skills, and vocational training for young adults on the spectrum; 100 percent sponsorship funds and vendor fees will benefit SEEDs programs. For more information, visit their website here.

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 Therapist for Children with Autism

Our ABA Treatment Services team is growing, and we are hiring! We offer ABA services in-home throughout the valley, as well as in-clinic at our legendary East Valley Center in Mesa, and our brand new, state of the art West Valley Center in Avondale.

Direct Support Provider

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 here. 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 parents become paid providers for their own child, where parents are able to provide Habilitation and Attendant Care Services. For more information on if you or someone you know qualifies for this position and how to apply, please click here.

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