Scottsdale Training and Rehabilitation Services (STARS)

Make a Difference in the Lives of Those Who Need It

Your Generous Support Brings Joy & Smiles to Our Participants!

At STARS, every day is an opportunity to bring joy, growth, and purpose to the lives of individuals with cognitive and developmental disabilities. From expressive art and music classes to movement workshops, job training, and community field trips—our programs are thoughtfully designed to help participants live fuller, more connected lives.

Walk through our doors and you’ll find laughter, learning, and a true sense of belonging. Families trust STARS because we provide a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where every individual is seen, heard, and valued.

We also strive to be the premier employment service in the Valley for people with cognitive and developmental disabilities. Through an individual first approach and high quality, personalized services, we empower each participant to achieve independence and thrive in the workplace. This is made possible by our strong partnerships with local employers who believe in inclusive hiring and community collaboration.

But we can’t do it without you!

Your generosity fuels these programs building confidence, developing lifelong skills, and opening doors to brighter futures. Whether you give once or choose to donate monthly, your support creates smiles and changes lives every single day.

📣 Arizona Residents: Double Your Impact!

Thanks to the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit, you can receive a dollar-for-dollar credit on your state taxes:

• Up to $495 for individuals

• Up to $987 for couples filing jointly

Give by April 15, 2026, and directly impact lives at no net cost to you!

Testimonials

"Chris has worked here for 31 years now and plans to be here for another 30 years- unless he can work from home in his pajamas. STARS has had a major impact on his life - he loves it here. " - Guardian of CommunityWork Participant

“I’m most proud of what STARS and the participants have done for this community. We’re just a framework, while the participants radiate love and happiness within the community.”  - Mary King, Founder

 "People who need work at a place like STARS, I would highly recommend it. Thank you for all you do."  - Guardian of CommunityWork Participant

"I feel extremely grateful I get to be a part of my participants' journey in helping them achieve their goals. I love seeing people's confidence grow when they succeed and find a job and community they can be comfortable with." - CIE Job Placement Coordinator

Why STARS

Founded in 1973, STARS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides day treatment, vocational training, and inclusive community employment programs for adults with developmental disabilities. These disabilities include chronic conditions such as Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury and others related to mental or physical impairments that arise before adulthood and cause difficulties in language, mobility, learning, self-care, and independent living. STARS mission is to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and changes lives through opportunity by providing supports that help individuals improve their self-care, self-direction, and economic self-sufficiency.