On October 23, 2025, the Sonoran Center participated in the 13th annual Breakfast with Champions event. The fundraiser aimed to highlight the work of athletes, coaches, families, and fans in Arizona that make the Special Olympics possible.

The Sonoran Center is excited to announce three new projects focused on improving supports for refugees with disabilities in Arizona: the USCRI Learning Collaboration, IRC Training Partnership, and Exploring the Potential of a DD Navigator in Arizona.

In this special edition of the CACTI Blog, we sat down with Peer Support Specialist and Community Advisory Council member David Taylor to discuss how healthcare providers, community members, friends and family can be more aware of trauma and behavioral health issues.

At the end of winter break, Sonoran Center trainees participated in a volunteer day at a program on the University of Arizona campus called ArtWorks. I left feeling uplifted and full of gratitude.

On October 8, 2025, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs issued a proclamation for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, or NDEAM. This year is distinguished for being the 80th anniversary of NDEAM. NDEAM is a time to honor the skills, contributions, and value that people with disabilities bring to America’s workplaces.

On October 10, Professional Fellows Mai Nambooze and Kelvin Mkude concluded their visit to Tucson, Arizona. The preceding three weeks were a rich exchange of knowledge, resources, and culture; both for the Fellows and the Sonoran Center. They visited as a part of the Professional Fellows Program on Inclusive Civic Engagement.

Working as an AdvoCat has helped me see how a more inclusive and open-minded approach benefits our entire community. We all have something to offer.

Since their arrival last month, Professional Fellows Mai Nambooze and Kelvin Mkude have been hard at work, and having some fun along the way!

Imagine this: instead of just putting up a job description and hoping for the right contender to apply, we could create roles around talented individuals in our communities? That's the promise of Customized Employment, a person-centered approach that's gaining momentum across the country.

On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the Reid Park Zoo hosted their annual DreamNight once again. DreamNight is a special opportunity for kids with disabilities. Kids can experience the Zoo free of charge and with special sensory-friendly accommodations and activities, and parents and supporters can also connect with helpful resources. The Sonoran Center was among the organizations that provided resources this year.