February 2024 | ISSUE 198

3rd Annual Run for Autism



There is still time to register for our 3rd Annual Run for Autism! This event will take place on Saturday, March 9th at 9:00 AM, at Freestone Park in Gilbert. Come out to support Arizona families living with autism! Runners, walkers, and virtual participants are all welcome!



This event offers 3 different options: a 5k, a 1-mile Family Fun Run and a Kids Dash, as well as games and activities for everyone to enjoy! The first 300 registrants will receive an event t-shirt and a medal.

Everyone is encouraged to start a team with family, friends, coworkers. This is a great team building activity! 

For event details and to register, visit our event website below. Please join us at this event to help promote autism and neurodiversity acceptance. We look forward to seeing you and your family there!

For more information on team registration, contact us at Events@AZAunited.org

Welcoming Our Newest Board Member

Arizona Autism United is very happy to announce the addition of Sara Presler as a new member of our volunteer Board of Directors! Sara Presler's career launched as a public defender representing children, and as an adjunct instructor with Northern Arizona University and Coconino Community College. She was twice elected Mayor of Flagstaff and was the youngest person and first woman to serve in that office. Today, Sara is an attorney and strategic leader in the cannabis industry. She serves as General Counsel for a multi-state business that’s engaged in cultivation, manufacturing, packaging, distribution, and retail operations. She has also been an attorney for children in The Hopi Tribe, General Counsel for Southwest Windpower, and CEO of the Maricopa County Medical Society and its Business Services. Previously, Sara was selected as CEO of the Arizona Foundation for Women and guided the nonprofit to earn a landmark grant from the NFL Foundation, partner with the Arizona Community Foundation, and further collaborate with Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. Sara’s personal interests include volunteering as a Daisy Girl Scout Troop leader and raising awareness about autism. She resides in the East Valley with her wife, Ali, and their four children.

"I am a parent of a child with autism. From academics to relationships to health care—we have a team supporting us. As a nonprofit, AZA United is truly focused on what each child needs to succeed."

As a nonprofit organization, the Board of Directors is AZA United's governing body. Individuals who sit on the board are responsible for overseeing the organization's activities. Board members meet periodically to discuss and vote on the affairs of the organization.

Still Time to Claim Your 2023 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 $421 for individuals, or $841 for married couples for 2023.

For 2024, donors can receive up to $470 for individuals or $938 for married couples. 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!



Community & AZA Employee Trainings

Arizona Autism United is excited to announce that we will be offering training sessions during the months of February and March on the following topics: Article 9, Prevention & Support, and CPR & First Aid. These training sessions are available to current AZA employees and new applicants, as well as to the public for a fee. Each topic offers a wide array of session dates, and additional details can be found by clicking on the topic name above.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Trainings@AZAunited.org

For additional provider resources, please visit our website below.

The Therapeutic Magic of Play



Occupational Therapy is more than just exercises and tasks; it is about engaging your child in purposeful activities that promote growth and independence. The use of play in this context acts as a bridge that connects therapy goals with the natural inclinations of children. It not only captures their attention but also opens the door to meaningful learning experiences. Of the many benefits, play in Occupational Therapy helps kids with autism in social skills development, sensory processing, and fine and gross motor skills development.

To continue reading this blog post, visit the button below.

Other Announcements & Resources

Support Group for Spanish-speaking Families

Our Grupo de Apoyo Unidos en Bienestar (Therapeutic Support Group in Spanish for parents) will meet again on Thursday evening, February 22, at 5:30 PM and Wednesday morning, March 13, at 9:30 AM. For more information contact Apoyo@AZAunited.org or 602-932-2227.

Upcoming Sibshops Event

Join us on March 2nd from 10-11AM on Zoom for our next Sibshops events for siblings. Registration is FREE and required to obtain the login information. Email or call us at Sibshops@AZAunited.org or 602-773-5773 to register or if you have any questions.

PBS Series Centering on Autistic Characters

PBS Kids announced CARL THE COLLECTOR, an animated series for children ages 4-8 and its first show featuring a lead character on the autism spectrum. The series celebrates the diverse ways kids think and express themselves, while helping them develop a strong sense of self and community. CARL THE COLLECTOR is slated to premiere in Fall 2024 on PBS KIDS. Visit this article to read more about the upcoming series!

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 / Behavior Technician

Our ABA Treatment Services program is growing across the valley! Positions can be full-time or part-time, either in-home or at one of our children's therapy clinics in Mesa & Avondale.

Direct Support Provider - Habilitation, Respite & Attendant Care

If you or someone you know is interested in providing in-home care services for individuals with developmental disabilities, use the link above to apply for a position as a Direct Support 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 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 the link above.

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