Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC)

11/06/2026

New diagnosis? New to Arizona? Navigating a transition? SARRC’s free virtual Family Orientation sessions provide families with practical information, resources and support at every step of their journey.

Led by members of SARRC’s family services team and program experts, these quick, informative sessions offer an inside look at available programs, services and next steps for individuals and families of all ages.

Family Orientation is offered in three age groups:

1️⃣ Young Children: Up to age 5
2️⃣ School-Age Children: Ages 6–12
3️⃣ Teens and Adults: Ages 13+

Depending on age, topics may include:

✅ Understanding autism spectrum disorder
✅ Intervention and support options
✅ Accessing services through state and insurance funding
✅ SARRC programs and age-specific resources, including IEP navigation, post-high school options, employment and family support

📌 Our next Family Orientation date is Monday, Nov. 16. Register at autismcenter.org/Events

11/05/2026

👋👋 Our 2027 PEERS® session dates are officially posted, and we’re excited to continue offering this supportive, evidence-based program for teens and young adults at both our Phoenix and Mesa campuses.

Through interactive lessons, role-play with coaching, peer mentoring and group activities, participants build skills to help navigate the social world with greater confidence. Topics include using humor, handling rumors and gossip, navigating electronic communication, organizing get-togethers and more.

Interested in joining a 2027 PEERS® session? 🎉 We’re now accepting interest for upcoming groups at our Phoenix and Mesa campuses!

✅ Visit autismcenter.org/PEERS or contact our team at (602) 606-9806 for more info!

11/05/2026

Does your child have trouble falling asleep? 💤🌙

SARRC is conducting a study measuring the effects of an investigational medication to help children with this problem. To meet eligibility requirements, your child must be between the ages of 2-17 and have difficulties in initiating sleep at least four nights per week.

For more information or to see if your child qualifies for the Pediatric Sleep Difficulties Study, contact us at (480) 351-0534 or visit autismcenter.org/Research.

11/04/2026

Just getting started on your autism journey?

JumpStart is a free, six-week program from SARRC designed to support families with children ages 18 months – 7 years who are newly navigating a diagnosis. You’ll receive expert guidance, practical strategies and personalized coaching from a licensed Board Certified Behavior Analyst — all tailored to your child and your family’s needs.

Aside from a $25 enrollment fee, there’s NO cost to participate!

➕ PLUS, JumpStart is available in person (Phoenix & Tucson) or remotely statewide!

➡️ To learn more or get started with enrollment, visit autismcenter.org/Jumpstart or contact our Family Resource Team at 602.606.9806.

11/04/2026

Happy November! 🍁 Check out all of our upcoming events for this month. 📆 To learn more about any of these events and register, please visit autismcenter.org/Events.

📌 Mix, Mingle & Connect Mixer hosted at our Phoenix Campus (spots are now limited)

📌 Free Family Orientation, a great resource for families at any stage in their journey

📌 Free Employment Services Orientation provides further insight to our employment offerings and more

📌 Special Needs Trusts & Guardianship Educational Webinar exploring the aspects of long-term planning for individuals with disabilities

📌 Grandparents Support Group, featuring Kate Swenson, a New York Time's bestselling author

11/03/2026

There's still time to register for the third and final Love Speaker Series presentation featuring Elizabeth Laugeson, PsyD, happening this Friday, Nov. 6, from 1 to 2 p.m. This free virtual session, "The Science of Dating for Autistic and Neurodivergent Youth," will explore:

Attendees will learn about:

🟣 PEERS® for Dating, an empirically supported social skills program focused on strategies for developing and maintaining romantic relationships for autistic and neurodivergent youth
🟣 The challenges in developing and maintaining romantic relationships among autistic and neurodivergent youth
🟣 The importance of teaching social strategies through a neuroaffirming lens
🟣 Evidence-based strategies for teaching dating skills to autistic and neurodivergent youth

- Presentation: 1 to 1:45 p.m.
- Moderated Q&A: 1:45 to 2 p.m.

Register at

Learn evidence-based, neuroaffirming dating strategies that help autistic and neurodivergent youth build healthy relationships.

11/03/2026

We’re proud to share that SARRC received the Outstanding Nonprofit Award at the 2026 Disability Awards and Recognition Event (D.A.R.E.) on Oct. 29! 🥳

Hosted by the City of Phoenix, AZ and the Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues, D.A.R.E. recognizes individuals, organizations and businesses for their dedication to advocacy, accessibility and service to the disability community.

This honor reflects the dedication of the entire SARRC community including our staff, families, board of directors, volunteers, partners and supporters who help advance our mission every day. Thank you for being part of the SARRC community and for helping us advance research and provide lifelong support. We’re grateful to celebrate this recognition with you!💜

11/02/2026

AIM ABA at SARRC partners with families to provide services in the home and community, helping individuals with autism build skills through 1:1 support from our team of trusted therapists.

Centered on compassion, collaboration and the individual priorities of each client, we’re committed to delivering high-quality, care for every family and meets your family where you are.

➡️ We're currently enrolling all ages in select Phoenix and metro Phoenix ZIP codes, as well as Tucson! To see if you qualify, please contact our Family Resource Team at 602-606-9806 or learn more at autismcenter.org/AIM-ABA.

11/02/2026

We're still celebrating our sixth annual YES Day Walk for Autism! 🎉 Thank you again to all who joined us in person or supported us from afar! See you next year! ☀💜🙌

10/31/2026

🎃 Happy Halloween from our little trick-or-treaters! 👻

Our Community School students and teachers celebrated yesterday with creative costumes, big smiles and lots of Halloween fun across our campuses. 🧡

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Halloween!