Arizona Autism Charter Schools Awarded $355,000 to Support Development of State’s First-Ever Autism-Focused Primary Care Clinic
(PHOENIX – Aug. 25, 2025) – Mercy Care has awarded Arizona Autism Charter Schools, the state’s only tuition-free, public charter network focused on the educational needs of students with autism, a 2025 Mercy C.A.R.E.S. Community Reinvestment Grant in the amount of $355,000. The funding will enable the development of the Autism Spectrum Wellness Center; Arizona’s first autism-specialty primary care medical clinic designed specifically for children and adults on the autism spectrum.
“The new Autism Spectrum Wellness Center will set a statewide precedent for delivering integrated, high-quality medical and behavioral health care tailored to the unique needs of individuals with autism,” said Trisha Stuart, director of community relations at Mercy Care. “The Center will provide comprehensive services, including routine care, behavioral support, and specialized accommodations, to thousands of patients and their families.”
Operated by Valle del Sol, a trusted community provider with over 50 years of experience in culturally responsive healthcare, the Center will be located on the main Phoenix campus of the Arizona Autism Charter Schools. This strategic co-location ensures convenient access for nearly 600 students and their families, while also welcoming members of the broader community seeking autism-informed care.
“Our students and families are accustomed to receiving the highest quality educational services tailored to their unique needs. Via this innovative partnership with Valle del Sol, we are thrilled to help ensure these same students and other community members with autism will also have convenient access to outstanding, compassionate primary care,” said Ron Harrison, interim CEO with Arizona Autism Charter Schools.
True to Valle del Sol’s holistic care model, the Center will be staffed by bilingual professionals and built around interdisciplinary collaboration. Medical providers will work closely with educators and behavioral health staff to support high-needs autistic children – especially those with co-occurring conditions such as seizure disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and anxiety – ensuring seamless, continuous care that extends beyond clinic walls.
“Meeting the complex healthcare needs our students often face – including seizure disorders, eating challenges and more – can have a profound impact on their ability to attend school consistently, stay focused, and thrive both academically and personally. We are so thankful to Mercy Care and the Mercy C.A.R.E.S. Community Reinvestment Grant Program for its generous financial support that is making this Autism Spectrum Wellness Center possible,” said Harrison.
In addition to direct care services, the Center will offer health education, preventive care, peer support groups, and wraparound resources for families and guardians. The goal: to improve not just clinical outcomes, but the daily quality of life for individuals on the spectrum and those who love and support them.
“Mercy Care, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary throughout 2025, partners with organizations across Arizona that advance health equity and address social risk factors to improve health outcomes,” said Stuart. “Through grant funding, sponsorships, volunteer efforts and board participation, Mercy Care has invested over $38 million in community reinvestment projects that help manage chronic conditions; support mental health and well-being; address housing security; and empower recovery from substance use.”
About Arizona Autism Charter Schools
The mission of Arizona Autism Charter Schools (AZACS) is to educate students with autism and other neurodiversity challenges using evidence-based strategies grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). AZACS’ vision is to empower students to reach their full potential in motivating, compassionate environments using individualized programs so that every child gains the skills to integrate into the community and become a fulfilled, productive citizen. Learn more at www.autismcharter.org.
About Mercy Care
Mercy Care is a not-for-profit Medicaid managed care health plan, serving AHCCCS members in Arizona since 1985. Mercy Care is a local company sponsored by Dignity Health and Ascension Health. Mercy Care provides access to physical and behavioral health care services for Medicaid-eligible families, children, seniors, and individuals with developmental/cognitive disabilities. Learn more at www.MercyCareAZ.org.
