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Mission, Vision & Goals

Empowering people with autism and other neurodiversities to thrive.

First Place to Take First Steps.

First Place® AZ, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization, represents home for individuals who live there, peace of mind for family and friends who come and go, and an inspiring and enriching environment for those who work and learn there. It represents a residential prototype that aspires to be an international model.

Mission

Foster a supportive, sustainable community where adults with autism and other neurodiversities live and thrive with pride, purpose and endless possibilities.

Vision

Ensure housing, healthcare and community options are as bountiful for adults with autism and other neurodiversities as they are for everyone else.

Goals

  • Create an internationally recognized development with a mix of residential options that serves as home for individuals with autism and other neurodiversities.
  • Demonstrate the success of residents and First Place Transition Academy participants through quality-of-life indicators, including community engagement and productivity, greater self-sufficiency and independence, and peace of mind for their families.
  • Position the Global Leadership Institute to serve as a site for education, training and thought leadership focused on expanding quality housing options.
  • Empower advancements in public policy to support new models based on positive outcomes; respected, evidence-based research; and sound financial frameworks facilitating the scalability of similar future developments.