Scottsdale Training and Rehabilitation Services Inc

For 40 years, STARS has been supporting teens and adults with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, seizure disorders and other disabilities. STARS provides job training, employment opportunities, day programs, art classes, specialized services for adults with autism and a Transitions Program for teens nearing high school graduation.

Our son Pete is proof that early intervention and on-going assistance through youth and young adult years is a benefit to the community, as well as the individual. (Cheryl and Dave, parents)

STARS needs the support of our families, friends and community members so that we can continue to change the lives of our participants. For people like Pete, STARS makes a difference by helping them find and maintain meaningful employment. Your financial contribution ensures STARS can continue to keep individuals with disabilities employed in our two Business Solutions Work Centers or in the community at one of our employer sponsored enclaves at Fry’s or Scottsdale Healthcare.  With STARS’ support, individuals can find a great job that keeps them connected to the community, gives them a sense of accomplishment and also helps, in part, to reduce their dependence on public funding.

For some people with disabilities, employment may not be a realistic goal.  For these individuals, STARS offers Day Programs that include the opportunity to learn life skills such as time management, communication skills and cooking classes.  To integrate individuals further into our community, STARS organizes frequent trips to shop, eat lunch, bowl or catch the latest movie.  We also offer creative art programs including Drawn Together and Shoot for the STARS Photography Program, both of which have been featured in local art shows and recognized by the Phoenix Sister Cities International Competition for Artists with Disabilities.

I can attest that no other program in the Valley is meeting the needs of young adults with disabilities with as much flexibility, kindness and perseverance as is STARS’ Young Adult Transitions Program. (Julia, parent)