Arizona Author Book Festival 2025
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!
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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...
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!
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.
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!
Social Saturday at SEEDs for Autism
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-hour social event provides a unique opportunity to go bowling and have FUN while experiencing a positive, encouraging environment of connection and friendship.
(This event is open to anyone ages 14 and up on the spectrum, but if you are new to SEEDs please bring along a guardian or provider for extra support.)
PLEASE NOTE: Food service doesn't start until 12:00 p.m., so if anyone wants to eat, it will be on your own, after we are all done bowling. SEEDs volunteers/staff will not be a part of this portion if you do decide to stay so family members will need to be there by 12:00 p.m.
Please register online prior to the event, so we have a head count and have payment received. We will meet at the bowling alley.
EVENT DETAILS:
Location: Let it Roll Bowling and Entertainment
Date: Saturday, April 15th 2023
Time: 10:00am to 12:00pm
Address: 8925 N. 12st Phoenix
$25.00- Includes the cost of shoes and lane time
CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO REGISTER AND RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY!
The Fellowship of Art - A Pop-Up Gallery Experience at 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 FELLOWSHIP OF ART features the work of local community artists, SEEDs Instructors and students. Please join us on March 31st and be a part of this exciting one-night-only art show at SEEDs for Autism.
Fellowship can be defined as a friendly association between people with shared interests. Artists of all kinds form a fellowship, one that delights in communicating in the universal language of art. “The Fellowship of Art” is a pop up gallery experience that brings together local artists to show with the talented participants of Seeds for Autism for a special one night event.
Richard Bledsoe of Remodern America, one of the organizers of the show, said, “Artists show us who they are with their creations. By hosting this art show, Seeds for Autism is providing opportunity for a diverse group of creatives to come together and share with the community. It truly is a fellowship of art, where everyone makes their own unique contribution.”
SEEDs for Autism is a unique vocational training program in Phoenix, AZ dedicated to providing adults across the spectrum with hands-on experience as they learn a variety of life skills, social skills and job skills in a real-life work environment. Through the production and sale of their hand-crafted home and garden items, adults on the autism spectrum build self-confidence as they step outside of their comfort zone and GROW.
50% of all Art Sales will be donated to support the life-changing program at SEEDs for Autism.
ADMISSION is FREE
Seeds Social Saturday
(Caregivers can enjoy our provided lunch during this event for $10)
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 those on the autism spectrum, this 3-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.
Arts & Crafts
Dungeons & Dragons
Games
Make & Takes
Food* & Fun!
*Gluten free options available for lunch (Must request in advance)
The Historical Novel Society (Arizona Chapter) Presents Bestselling Author Nancy E. Turner
The Historical Novel Society – Arizona Chapter (HNS-AZ) is partnering with SEEDs for Autism to bring bestselling Arizona author Nancy E. Turner to Phoenix. Turner will discuss aspects of historical fiction writing at a free public event.
Date: Saturday, February 11, 2023
Location: SEEDs for Autism, 3420 S. 7th St., Phoenix, AZ 85040
Schedule: 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. – Author presentation, followed by Q&A and book signing
~ Optional break-out sessions for book club discussion and Historical Novel Society networking until 1:30 p.m.
Complimentary light refreshments will be provided by HNS-AZ. Turner’s books will be available for purchase. Admission is free, though attendance is limited and reservations are required.
Halloween Bash
Let’s Connect Teens and Adults:
Halloween Bash
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!
WHEN: Saturday, November 5th
TIME: 5-8 PM
WHERE: SEEDS for Autism
THE GIFT OF ART - A Pop Up Gallery Experience at 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 GIFT OF ART features the work of local community artists, SEEDs Instructors and students. Please join us on October 14th and be a part of this exciting one-night-only art show at SEEDs for Autism.
A pop up gallery is a temporary art show held in a non-tradtional location. Local artist Richard Bledsoe described how Seeds for Autism is an ideal venue for an art exhibit. “I’ve seen lives transformed by the programs at Seeds for Autism. One of the biggest factors I see in this progress is the hands-on work Seeds emphasizes. As a painter, I understand the personal growth which happens when you engage with the material world. The making and viewing of art inspires kinship for all participants. We are grateful to Seeds for providing this opportunity to bring the community together.”
50% of all Art Sales will be donated to support the life-changing program at SEEDs for Autism.
ADMISSION is FREE
Leaf Impression Painting Workshop
Share the experience of art with your community, learn new techniques and take home your own unique and beautiful work of art!
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.
LEAF IMPRESSION PAINTING WORKSHOP
Join us at SEEDs for Autism, get creative and unleash your inner artist!
Using cutouts, stamps and paint, learn how to create your own masterpiece celebrating the beauty of leaves! Each workshop participant will take home two unique paintings! (One on canvas board and one on stretched canvas) Perfect for gift-giving!
Bring a friend and save!
$45 per person or $80 for two!
(All Supplies Included)
SPACE IS LIMITED!
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY!
Please Note: The Leaf Impression Painting Workshop is 2 1/2 hours long so be sure to bring a snack! Also, workshop attendees will be working with acrylic paint - aprons will be provided, but creating art can get messy! Be sure to dress appropriately.
Art is for Everyone! A Pop-Up Gallery Experience at SEEDs for Autism
ART IS FOR EVERYONE: A POP UP GALLERY EXPERIENCE AT SEEDS FOR AUTISM
Seeds For Autism Hosts Group Art Exhibit
PHOENIX, AZ - Local artists present a pop up gallery experience at Seeds for Autism. Community artists and the talented participants at Seeds for Autism present a special one night show on Friday, May 27, 2022, 6pm to 8pm.
A pop up gallery is a temporary art show held in a non-tradtional location. Local artist Richard Bledsoe described how Seeds for Autism is an ideal venue for an art exhibit. “I’ve seen lives transformed by the programs at Seeds for Autism. One of the biggest factors I see in this progress is the hands-on work Seeds emphasizes. As a painter, I understand the personal growth which happens when you engage with the material world. The making and viewing of art inspires kinship for all participants. We are grateful to Seeds for providing this opportunity to bring the community together.”
SEEDs for Autism is a unique vocational training program in Phoenix, AZ dedicated to providing adults across the spectrum with hands-on experience as they learn a variety of life skills, social skills and job skills in a real-life work environment. Through the production and sale of their hand-crafted home and garden items, adults on the autism spectrum build self-confidence as they step outside of their comfort zone and GROW.
This event was created to raise awareness and support for the life-changing program at SEEDs for Autism. Participating artists will be donating 50% of all sales to SEEDs.
ADMISSION IS FREE!
Art Jam and Open House
At SEEDs for Autism, one of the most unique aspects of our program is providing real life opportunities for participants to turn the skills they learn into ACTION! Our Annual Art Jam & Open House is an exciting time at SEEDs as we open our doors and welcome the entire community to shop, share experiences and celebrate with us!
SHOPPING WITH PURPOSE: SEEDs participants produce a wide variety of high quality home and garden items which will be available for purchase at our annual Art Jam! When you buy one of our products not only do you get a high quality item, you are also lifting the spirits and providing encouragement to the artist who created it! For these talented young adults, investing time, creativity, hard work and dedication to transform basic materials into a thing of beauty is an uplifting experience. Every purchase made during the event will help support adults on the autism spectrum and the life-changing program at SEEDs.
Please join us Saturday, May 7th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at SEEDs for Autism!
SEEDs for Autism
3420 S. 7th St. Phoenix, AZ 85040
602-253-4471
Needle Felting Workshop
Join us at SEEDs for Autism, get creative and unleash your inner artist! Sign up for our February Workshop to share the experience of art with your community, learn new techniques and take home your own unique and beautiful work of art!
All supplies included!
Space is Limited, so please RSVP!
(Remember to bring a snack)
Click HERE for more information and to reserve your spot today!
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 inspiring creative events.
Join us February 26th and learn the wonderful technique of Needle Felting! Create your own adorable masterpiece during this exciting SIDE by SIDE community workshop at SEEDs for Autism!
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR: Claudia Lemacks studied textiles and clothing design at Long Beach City College. She loves to repurpose clothing and other fabric into useful or fun items. Claudia makes needle felted critters for fun and gifts, like bears and fairy dolls. Most of her items are made from discarded parts and fabrics.
Recycled Tin Jewelry Workshop
Join us at SEEDs for Autism, get creative and unleash your inner artist! Sign up for our January Workshop to share the experience of art with your community, learn new techniques and take home your own unique and beautiful work of art!
Create a recycled tin pair of earrings, bracelet, or necklace. Have fun learning basic jewelry techniques along with your imagination to cut, file, and design one-of-a-kind pieces of colorful wearable artwork!
This workshop is all about being creative, taking something found and making it fun and fashionable!.
No previous jewelry skills required. If you have a few tins laying around the house that you would like to use, bring them, but there will also be all the supplies you need to create several fun pieces.
Space is Limited, so please RSVP!
(Remember to bring a snack!)
Click HERE to reserve your spot today!
2021 Holiday Sale and Open House Event
Our annual Holiday Sale and Open House is an exciting time for SEEDs participants, and they are looking forward to sharing their talents and skills with the entire community! In addition to creating all of the beautifully hand-crafted items you will find at the Holiday Sale, SEEDs participants will also be performing demonstrations, processing payments and providing excellent customer service during the event! Please join us December 4th at SEEDs for Autism and shop with purpose this holiday season!
SEEDs for Autism
3420 S. 7th St. Phoenix, AZ 85040