#United States #Mesa #Spectrum IPA #Mesa For All #Autism Certified City

Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month in Mesa, Arizona

This April, Mesa, Arizona, proudly marks Autism Acceptance Month by going blue and supporting its community with innovative initiatives. Recognized as the first Autism Certified City in the United States, Mesa continues to lead efforts in promoting awareness and inclusion for individuals with autism. The highlight of this month’s celebration is the fourth annual release of Spectrum IPA, a collaborative effort with local breweries 12West Brewing Co. and Chupacabra Taproom.

The Spectrum IPA Launch

Spectrum IPA is a West Coast-style India Pale Ale characterized by its bold flavors derived from Citra and Mosaic hops, creating a refreshing experience for craft beer enthusiasts. This limited-edition brew, available at local establishments while supplies last, reflects the vibrant craft brewing scene in Mesa and serves a greater purpose: a portion of its sales will directly contribute to the Mesa For All Foundation. This foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents and visitors, particularly through initiatives that uplift neurodivergent individuals.

Supporting Neurodivergent Youth

One of the key programs supported by the proceeds from Spectrum IPA sales is Camp Level Up. Scheduled to take place from June 16-27, 2025, at the ASU Media and Immersive eXperience (MIX) Center, this summer camp is designed for neurodivergent youth aged 13-18, focusing on professional development in game design and social skills. It’s an exciting opportunity for young individuals to foster their interests and build community connections.

Alison Brooks, vice president of marketing and destination experience at Visit Mesa, expressed her pride in continuing the partnership with local breweries. She stated, “This collaboration not only raises awareness but also directly supports initiatives that empower neurodivergent youth through efforts from the Mesa For All Foundation.”

Additional Activations for Awareness

Beyond the much-anticipated release of Spectrum IPA, Visit Mesa is launching various activations throughout April. These include an updated Autism Travel Guide, featuring personal community stories and resources intended for neurodiverse families. Additionally, the newly refreshed Live Life Limitless Seeker Pass will provide new experiences and partnerships, enhancing the community's inclusiveness.

A unique offering will be the Spec(trum) Ops Soda, made in collaboration with Cider Corps. Available at select Mesa businesses, this soda embodies the spirit of the month, joining the efforts to create a supportive environment for all.

Five Years of Commitment

As Mesa celebrates the fifth anniversary of its designation as the first Autism Certified City, it highlights the progress made over these years. More than 50 businesses and over 7,900 community members have undergone autism-specific training, showcasing a collective commitment to creating an inclusive atmosphere.

Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to engage in community activities and support initiatives aimed at improving the lives of neurodivergent individuals throughout the city.

To learn more about Spectrum IPA and join the celebrations for Autism Acceptance Month, visit Visit Mesa. Together, let’s foster understanding and create a welcoming environment for everyone in our community!

About Visit Mesa

Visit Mesa is the primary organization responsible for promoting Mesa, Arizona, as a leading destination for leisure and business travel. Their mission includes enhancing community welfare through visitor engagement and advocacy for inclusivity.

About Mesa For All Foundation

As a recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit entity, the Mesa For All Foundation is committed to enhancing accessibility and equity within the city through educational initiatives and technological advances aimed at promoting inclusivity.