May
9
10:00 AM10:00
May
3
10:00 AM10:00
Arizona Author Book Festival 2026
Sunday, May 3, 2026
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Warehouse 215 in Downtown Phoenix
215 E Grant Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Free Books: The first 1,000 kids (up to 17 years) will receive a book!
Free Tote Bag: First 500 attendees get free tote courtesy of Half Price Bookstore – Paradise Valley.
Arizona Authors: More than 40 authors from throughout Arizona, published in a variety of genres for all ages.
Children’s Corner: Free book-themed make-and-take crafts, story time, and more!
Author Talks: Inspiring presentations and book signings with best-selling authors.
The Writer’s Scene: Vendors offering services or support to authors and writers.
Writing on the Spectrum: Books and services by, for and about autistic and neurodivergent people.
Spin & Win Raffle: First 500 attendees get a stamp card for a FREE Raffle Spin. Every spin wins!
Shopping: Books! And book- and writing-themed souvenirs, gifts and more.
Free valet parking: Courtesy of festival sponsor Epic Valet
Food and drinks, live music, and more fun for all ages throughout the day!
Attendance is FREE, and no ticket is required!
100 percent of sponsorship funds and vendor fees supports SEEDs for Autism.
The 2026 Arizona Author Book Festival will take place on Sunday, May 3, in downtown Phoenix. As a fundraising event for SEEDs for Autism, the event relies on the generosity and support of the community. It takes many hands and smiles to pull it off, and we would love for you to join us as a volunteer!
There are many opportunities, whether you want to help all day or just a few hours, whether you like to be on the go or prefer a task where you can sit. Have a musical talent? Like to work with children? We have something for everyone!
Check out the jobs and timeslots at our SignUp Genius Volunteer page.
Apr
25
10:00 AM10:00
SOCIAL SATURDAYS at SEEDs for Autism
SEEDs for Autism is excited to offer a space that will not only host but provide engaging activities for autistic youth and adults, ages 14 and up. There is no age limit to participate.
The goal for Social Saturdays is to give a social component that allows for found friendships, creativity, exploration, experiences, and connections in a safe environment.
Programming is organic and fluid, but always packed with diverse interests that focus on team building, peer engagement, new experiences, and interactive fun. Social Saturdays are offered over the course of 6 weeks. and will feature 3 or more activities, so everyone will have choices to engage in different opportunities.
Saturdays will organically rotate and may provide any of the following:
Movement,, music, crafts. innovative STEM projects, discussion forums, Minute to Win it games, party planning and outreach, chess, social games, community volunteering projects, art, theater, cosplay, special interests like: Harry Potter, Disney, Marvel, film, movies, sports, song writing, open mic, creative writing, LEGOs, puzzles, games and so much more!
Our First Social Saturdays series will occur on the following dates:
March 14th March 28th April 11th April 25th May 9th May 23rd
Events will take place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm (4 hours). Each person will be required to bring their own lunch and drink, as we will always break for a group lunchtime.
The cost to participate is $220 per individual, if you sign up for all 6 Saturdays in the series. If you can’t attend each session, that’s okay! You can choose to pay per Saturday at the rate of $45 per person. Please note, signing up for all sessions in advance is a savings of $50! We are an ESA vendor! Ask us about ESA pricing. We are actively looking for sponsorships to help subsidize the cost of future Social Saturday events.
*Paperwork is required and must be filled out in advance to attend for all participants. Please call 602-253-4471 for more information
Disclaimer: Please note we want everyone to have a good experience; please notify us in advance if your participant is prone to any behaviors, wanders, or has difficulty staying focused. Advancer notice helps ensure we can meet everyone’s needs. At times, participants may be required to provide a respite provider or assistant..
Mar
14
10:00 AM10:00
SOCIAL SATURDAYS at SEEDs for Autism
SEEDs for Autism is excited to offer a space that will not only host but provide engaging activities for autistic youth and adults, ages 14 and up. There is no age limit to participate.
The goal for Social Saturdays is to give a social component that allows for found friendships, creativity, exploration, experiences, and connections in a safe environment.
Programming is organic and fluid, but always packed with diverse interests that focus on team building, peer engagement, new experiences, and interactive fun. Social Saturdays are offered over the course of 6 weeks. and will feature 3 or more activities, so everyone will have choices to engage in different opportunities.
Saturdays will organically rotate and may provide any of the following:
Movement,, music, crafts. innovative STEM projects, discussion forums, Minute to Win it games, party planning and outreach, chess, social games, community volunteering projects, art, theater, cosplay, special interests like: Harry Potter, Disney, Marvel, film, movies, sports, song writing, open mic, creative writing, LEGOs, puzzles, games and so much more!
Our First Social Saturdays series will occur on the following dates:
March 14th March 28th April 11th April 25th May 9th May 23rd
Events will take place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm (4 hours). Each person will be required to bring their own lunch and drink, as we will always break for a group lunchtime.
The cost to participate is $220 per individual, if you sign up for all 6 Saturdays in the series. If you can’t attend each session, that’s okay! You can choose to pay per Saturday at the rate of $45 per person. Please note, signing up for all sessions in advance is a savings of $50! We are an ESA vendor! Ask us about ESA pricing. We are actively looking for sponsorships to help subsidize the cost of future Social Saturday events.
*Paperwork is required and must be filled out in advance to attend for all participants. Please call 602-253-4471 for more information
Disclaimer: Please note we want everyone to have a good experience; please notify us in advance if your participant is prone to any behaviors, wanders, or has difficulty staying focused. Advancer notice helps ensure we can meet everyone’s needs. At times, participants may be required to provide a respite provider or assistant..
Mar
7
10:00 AM10:00
Feb
28
10:00 AM10:00
Feb
28
10:00 AM10:00
SEEDs Social Saturday Kickoff
Open to teens and adults on the autism spectrum ages 14+
Stop by anytime between 10am and 2pm!
Jan
23
6:00 PM18:00
The Art of Inclusion: A Pop-Up Gallery Experience at SEEDs for Autism
A One-Night Art Exhibit and Fundraiser Showcasing Professional Artists and Adults on the Autism Spectrum
On January 23. 2026 SEEDs for Autism is proud to present The Art of Inclusion, a special one-night art exhibit and fundraiser that brings together the creative talents of professional artists and adults on the autism spectrum. This inspiring event highlights the transformative power of art while raising funds to support the life-changing program at SEEDs for Autism.
The Art of Inclusion will feature a diverse collection of artwork celebrating creativity without boundaries. Guests will experience a vibrant evening filled with paintings, mixed media, and unique works that reflect both professional artistry and the authentic voices of SEEDs participants.
50% of all art sales will directly benefit SEEDs for Autism, helping fund essential vocational training, life skills, and job readiness programs for adults on the spectrum. Every purchase supports not only the artist but also the mission of creating opportunities, independence, and brighter futures.
“This event is about more than just art—it’s about connection, accomplishment, and celebrating every individual’s creativity,” said curator and artist Richard Bledsoe. “The Art of Inclusion shows what’s possible when we come together and share our unique perspectives and talents.”
Event Details:
📅 Date: Friday January 23, 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm
📍 Location: SEEDs For Autism 3420 S 7th St Phoenix AZ 85040
Admission is free. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the exhibit, meet the artists, and support the mission of SEEDs for Autism.
Dec
6
10:00 AM10:00
Nov
1
5:00 PM17:00
HALLOWEEN BASH
Join ASGP and SEEDs For Autism as we partner for our annual Halloween Bash on Saturday, November 1st from 5 PM – 7:30 PM at SEEDs! This event is intended for Autistic Teens and Adults, ages 16+. There will be games, music, food and fun! Costumes are encouraged! We hope you’ll join us for this spooktacular event!
When: Saturday, November 1st
Where: SEEDS for Autism, Phoenix
Time: 5:00 – 7:30 PM
Cost: $20 per attendee.
Caregivers wishing to stay must pay $10.
IMPORTANT: Registration will close on October 30th OR when the event sells out, whichever happens first!Spaces are limited. This event is likely to sell out as it has in past years so RSVP as soon as possible!
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET TODAY!
Oct
25
8:00 AM08:00
Master Gardener and Metro Tech Annual Fall Festival and Plant Sale
Celebrate gardening at the Master Gardener and Metro Tech Annual Fall Festival & Plant Sale! Explore the plant sale, craft vendors, and rummage sale, seek garden advice, and support student clubs.
• Plants for sale grown by Maricopa County Master Gardeners, Metro Tech students
• Food, crafts, and more from vendors and Metro Tech student clubs
• Prize Drawings
• Rummage Sale of gently used household items, books, and garden items
• Get answers to your home garden and landscape questions from Extension Master Gardeners
This unique gardening event also features trained Master Gardeners providing expert advice to help your plants succeed. The fundraiser supports Metro Tech’s student programs and The University of Arizona Maricopa County Master Gardener program.
Free Admission and Parking. Bring cash as some vendors and student clubs can only accept cash.
Parking available in the Thomas Ave lot only.
If you are interested in attending and would like email updates and maps for the event, please provide you name and email information here.
Metro Tech High School
1900 W Thomas Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85015
Apr
27
10:00 AM10:00
Arizona Author Book Festival 2025
IMPORTANT UPDATE:
The location of the Arizona Author Book Festival is 30 N 56th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Arizona Author Book Festival 2025 is a free, fun, family-friendly event created to:
build community.
champion literacy.
boost local authors and businesses.
foster autism acceptance.
support SEEDs for Autism.
Will you join us?
Become a sponsor and literacy champion. Be part of our Writer’s Scene Exhibit tent as a vendor. Join our team of enthusiastic volunteers. Bring your family and friends to the festival!
For more information, please visit their website!
Feb
15
7:00 AM07:00
Zoowalk for Autism Research
COME AND JOIN US FOR ANOTHER FUN ZOOWALK FOR AUTISM RESEARCH ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15th, 2025 AT THE PHOENIX ZOO!
Help raise money to support important research at ASU to help children and adults with autism!
Have a fun time strolling around the Phoenix Zoo with your family and friends, seeing lions, tigers, giraffes, elephants, monkeys, bears, tortoises, and more!
Walkers can stay at the zoo the entire day!
Come visit the exhibitors and sponsors pavilion!
For more information and to register today, please visit
www.zoowalk.org
Jan
25
9:30 AM09:30
Buckeye Days
We are always excited to be a part of Buckeye Days in Downtown Buckeye, Arizona! It is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community, celebrate local history and share the beautiful selection of hand-crafted items created by the participants at SEEDs for Autism. We hope you will stop by, say hello and shop our products at the SEEDs Mobile Boutique.
Buckeye Days are coming up January 25th, 2025. Join them for a parade, wild west performances, vendors, food and more to celebrate the rich history of Buckeye. There will be a Cattle Drive Parade on Saturday along Monroe Avenue at 9:30am. Stick around for the main events with the Helzapoppin PRCA Rodeo at the Buckeye Equestrian Center. This is a great family friendly event.
For more information and tickets, please visit their website
buckeyeaz.gov
Dec
7
10:00 AM10:00
Nov
2
10:00 AM10:00
Wag n' Walk
Join us November 2nd for our Wag n’ Walk fundraising event at SEEDs for Autism!
Walking your dog is a simple activity that has an amazing positive impact on many aspects of overall health and wellbeing for both you and your pet! On November 2nd, we hope you and your furry family members will join us at our Wag n’ Walk fundraising event to help support adults on the autism spectrum.
This exciting event will host a marketplace of local vendors where you can shop from a wide variety of items for both you and your pets! There will be contests and prizes awarded for our four-legged attendees as well as a raffle, snacks and more! This family-friendly event is open to the entire community – with or without dogs.
PARTICIPATING IN THE WALK
The Wag n’ Walk form must be completed, and signed back to SEEDs for Autism if you want to walk your dog(s) on Saturday, November 2, 2024. The good news is, the first 30 people to register will get a prize of SEEDs choice for either an event shirt or an event bandana. While these items will also be for sale, the first 30 to register get one of these items for free! Click on the link to complete the form and register to participate:
BECOME A VENDOR
Deadline for vendor applications booth space is October 18th. Proof of COI must be submitted along with payment with SEEDs additionally insured.
Wag n' Walk event is November 2nd, 2024. Vendors may arrive at 7:00am-8:00am to set up booth space. Vendors must be ready to roll by 9:30 am with all vehicles parked in designated area. The Community Walk will kick off at 10:00am and festivities will continue until 2:00 pm. after the walk.
Booth spaces are 10x10 outdoor spaces. Vendors/Groups must provide their own signs, tables, chairs, internet connection, canopies and other equipment. Please note any special accommodations in the appropriate space on the registration form.
BECOME A SPONSOR
Please consider a sponsorship to support the life-changing program at SEEDs for Autism. SEEDs is dedicated to serving the needs of adults on the spectrum. This is a place provides an environment without limitations, that offers encouragement, possibilities, mentors, friendships, and genuine life triumphs for their participants.
ALL SPONSOR LEVELS INCLUDE PARTICIPATION AS A VENDOR AT THE EVENT
100% of the sponsorship donations received go directly to SEEDs for Autism programs. Donors receive print, and website recognition. Click on the link below to learn more and to register as a sponsor for this inspirational event.
Oct
4
6:00 PM18:00
The Spectrum of Art - A Pop-up Gallery Experience at SEEDs for Autism
THIS FREE EVENT IS OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY!
Date: Friday, October 4 - 6PM to 8PM
Location: SEEDs for Autism
At SEEDs for Autism we understand that art is a powerful form of communication. Art encourages creativity and self-expression. Art stirs the imagination and helps us grow as we engage with other artists, improve our skills and create beautiful pictures to share with the world. THE SPECTRUM OF ART features the work of local community artists, SEEDs Instructors and adults on the autism spectrum. Please join us on October 4th and be a part of this exciting one-night-only art show at SEEDs.
A spectrum is the distribution of bands of colors produced when light is dispersed by a prism. The colors are always there in the light, we just don’t normally perceive them.
A rainbow is an example of a spectrum produced by nature. Even as light is altered into its component parts, the colors work together, each showing their own unique beauty as part of a whole.
Making art allows artists to show and highlight a part of themselves not usually visible. The upcoming October exhibit “The Spectrum of Art” brings together local artists from the community displaying their works side by side with artists from Seeds for Autism. Each participant shares their own unique beauty to create an array of artistic expressions.
This pop up gallery experience shows the creativity and talent which exists across the spectrum, coming together for a one night special event, open to the community.
Richard Bledsoe, curator
Remodern America
50% of all art sales will go to support adults on the spectrum and the life-changing program at SEEDs for Autism.
May
4
10:00 AM10:00
Apr
20
10:00 AM10:00
Macramé Workshop at SEEDs for Autism
Come and join us for a fun time and learn the art of macramé!
At SEEDs for Autism, our ongoing series of workshops provide new opportunities to empower our participants and encourage them to GROW! These talented young adults gain confidence as they share their skills with others, engage with the community and assist our staff during these creative and inspiring events. This month we are excited to present our Macramé Workshop!
We hope you will come create with us!
Open to the community
Pre-registration required, space is limited, class closes on Friday 4/19/24
Please bring your own snack and beverage
Mar
30
10:00 AM10:00
Mar
2
11:00 AM11:00
Historical Novel Society of Arizona Presents: Teresa H Janssen
Debut historical novelist Teresa H. Janssen will discuss the inspiration behind her book The Ways of Water, which was shortlisted for the CIBA Goethe Award in Historical Fiction.
Her novel tells the tale of Josie Belle Gore – daughter of a Louisiana train engineer and Texas seamstress – who journeys with her itinerant family through the deserts of the boom-and-bust American West and revolutionary Mexico. “As Papa ran the steam locomotives across the great deserts of the West, Mama followed him,” Josie says in the opening lines of the novel. “Steam engines always follow water, and we did too.”
Janssen writes creative nonfiction, fiction, and poetry, exploring themes pertaining to the web of family, nature and the environment, travel and migration, education and language, and spiritual topics.
Complimentary light refreshments will be provided by HNS-AZ.
Books will be available for purchase at the event through Bookman’s Entertainment Exchange, a generous and active participant in literacy- and community-based events in the Phoenix and Tucson communities.
SEEDs for Autism provides a path from “learning to earning” for young adults with autism through education, vocational training, and social development. The organization hosts events throughout the year to foster community-building and raise autism awareness.
Click here to learn about future HNS-AZevents.
Feb
24
4:00 PM16:00
Feb
17
7:00 AM07:00
ZOOWALK for Autism Research
2024 ZOOWALK FOR AUTISM RESEARCH at the Phoenix Zoo!
Thanks to your support, the ASU Zoowalk for Autism Research has been able to continue several important research projects, including their work on microbiota transplant (super-probiotic) and much more!. You can learn more about our current and future research at https://autism.asu.edu/ – see the bottom section of the main page.
We invite you to join us for a fun day at the Zoo – it is a great family event, and the major annual fundraiser for our research at ASU on improving the lives of children and adults with autism!
Registration is now open at www.zoowalk.org – so please join us and consider forming a team with your friends and family. Donations and sponsors are also welcome, and information is on the website.
Thanks for your support and your interest in improving the lives of children and adults with autism!
We hope to see you at the Zoowalk!
Feb
3
10:00 AM10:00
Yoga, Meditation and Mala Workshop
OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY!
Yoga helps reduce stress, improves flexibility, and increases strength and balance. Join us at SEEDs for Autism Saturday, February 3rd to learn basic Yoga and meditation techniques as well as create your own Mala (a type of meditation or prayer beads that were developed to keep the mind focused, relaxed and calm).
Price: $30 per person (all materials included)
Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a snack!
Click on the link below and reserve your spot today!
Dec
2
10:00 AM10:00
2023 Holiday Sale and Open House
Our annual Holiday Sale and Open House is always an exciting time at SEEDs for Autism! After all the hard work and preparation, our participants embrace the opportunity to share their talents and skills with the entire community! In addition to creating all the beautifully hand-crafted items found at the Holiday Sale, SEEDs participants will be processing payments and providing excellent customer service during the event! Join us on Saturday, December 2nd and shop with purpose this holiday season!
Nov
4
10:00 AM10:00
Halloween Bash 2023
JOIN US SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH AT SEEDS FOR AUTISM!
Let's Connect : Teens & Adults
Halloween Bash
When: Saturday, November 4th
Time: 11 AM – 2 PM
Where: SEEDs for Autism
Cost: $20 per person
Join ASGP and SEEDs for Autism as we partner for our annual Halloween Bash! This event is intended for Autistic Teens and Adults. There will be games, music, food and fun! Costumes are encouraged! $20 per attendee. Caregivers wishing to stay must pay $10. We hope you’ll join us for this spooktacular event!
Spaces are limited.
This event is likely to sell out as it has in past years so RSVP as soon as possible!
Aug
12
11:00 AM11:00
Neurodiversity in Historical Fiction with Award Winning Arizona Author Jessica McCann
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Author presentation, followed by Q&A and book signing
The Arizona Chapter of the Historical Novel Society hosts free public events for readers, writers, and authors. Like the founding international organization, we aim to open the door to historical fiction for anyone who loves exploring the past. Our four yearly events alternate between Phoenix and Tucson.
Award-winning novelist Jessica McCann will discuss the relevance of neurodiverse characters in historical fiction. Her novel Peculiar Savage Beauty was named 2018 Arizona Book of the Year and shortlisted for the international 2020 Rubery Book Award. Publishers Weekly called it a “gripping, atmospheric novel [that] meshes a seminal event in American history with a suspenseful plot and insightfully etched characters.” Set in 1930s Kansas, the book’s main characters include Woody, an autistic savant born in an era long before any medical diagnosis would explain his peculiar ways and unique talents.
Complimentary light refreshments will be provided by HNS-AZ.
McCann’s novel will be available for purchase at the event, and 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit SEEDs for Autism.
SEEDs for Autism provides a path from “learning to earning” for young adults with autism through education, vocational training, and social development. The organization hosts events throughout the year to foster community and raise autism awareness.
Admission is free, though attendance is limited, and reservations are appreciated.
Please visit the Eventbrite link for more details and to RSVP.
https://www.eventbrite.com/.../novelist-to-discuss...
Jun
17
10:00 AM10:00
SEEDs Social Saturday: Ice Cream, Games and More!
At SEEDs for Autism, we are happy to provide organized recreational activities in a structured, supportive environment where participants can engage with their peers, cultivate new experiences and have FUN! For teens and adults on the autism spectrum, this 2 1/2 hour social event provides a unique opportunity to express themselves creatively and explore different interests while experiencing a positive, encouraging environment of connection and friendship.
Space is limited so be sure to sign up in advance and reserve your spot today!
May
20
10:00 AM10:00
All About Ollas
Connect with the community, learn about desert gardening with ollas and take home your own unique and wonderful creations!
OPEN TO THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY!
Date: Saturday May 20th
Time: 10:00 am to 12:30
Where: SEEDs for Autism 3420 S. 7th Street
Cost: $30.00
At SEEDs for Autism, our ongoing series of SIDE by SIDE workshops provides new opportunities to empower our participants to gain confidence, engage with the community, enjoy new experiences and GROW! These talented young adults SHINE as they share their skills with others during these creative and inspiring events.
NOTE: Attendees will be split into 2 groups, giving each participant a chance to take part in both activities.
LECTURE by Master Gardener Mary Osmond
Learn how to use Olla Irrigation, the history behind it and how it helps nurture your plants (potted and in the ground). Each participant will have the opportunity to make and take home a Olla container.
CRAFTED FLOWER PROJECT
Participants will have the opportunity to get creative making a fun flower using a variety of materials. All supplies included!
* If you are new to SEEDs and on the spectrum, please note you might want to have a habilitator attend with you for supports.
May
6
10:00 AM10:00
Art Jam and Open House
Our Annual Art Jam & Open House is an exciting time at SEEDs for Autism as we open our doors and welcome the entire community to shop, share experiences and celebrate with us! SEEDs participants produce a wide variety of high quality home and garden items which will be available for purchase at our annual Art Jam! Every purchase made during the event will help support adults on the autism spectrum and the life-changing program at SEEDs.
Food
Shopping
Make & Take Projects
and More!
Apr
22
11:00 AM11:00
