West Valley alliance launches to provide rapid crisis relief

By James Goldmeer
Mail

In the critical 48 hours following a family emergency, the difference between stability and collapse often comes down to a single phone call. A new West Valley alliance is making sure that call is answered.

Community leaders and first responders recently gathered to launch Just Ask, an outreach initiative designed to provide immediate relief to neighbors in crisis. Operating as the primary outreach arm of the nonprofit Sounds of Autism, Just Ask functions as a rapid-response bridge, delivering essential supplies like hygiene products, clothing, and home goods to vulnerable populations within two days of an emergency.

 Larry Cervarich, who previously founded Homeless Youth Connection and Meals of Joy, leads the mission alongside Edward Brabham Jr., the executive director of distribution. Brabham, a supply chain veteran, said the operation is fundamentally about people rather than logistics.

“At Just Ask, we're committing to our community in a meaningful way, supporting individuals and families in crisis, standing on the side of first responders and parting with organizations like Sounds of Autism,” said  Brabham. “ When you see a need, when you hear a call for help, don't look away. When someone's searching for a fresh start, the idea is that we are here for them to just ask. We are here together, support you, and we will be there to respond.”

While rapid delivery is a cornerstone of the mission, Just Ask is using its funding to reshape how the West Valley handles long-term reintegration and public safety. The organization provides specialized training for first responders, medical professionals and public officials, focusing on the nuances of interacting with neurodiverse individuals to ensure emergency encounters are handled with de-escalation and understanding.

• Just Ask funds specialized training for first responders and public officials. These sessions focus on the nuances of interacting with individuals on the autism spectrum and other at-risk populations, ensuring that emergency encounters are handled with de-escalation and understanding.
•  The organization supports city programs designed to support residents in vulnerable circumstances, helping municipalities expand their reach to those who might otherwise fall through the cracks.
• Through its support of Sounds of Autism, Just Ask funds reintegration programs. These services are not exclusive to the autistic community; they are designed for any individual in an at-risk population, including those recovering from addiction or individuals re-entering society after incarceration, who may need help regulating or readjusting to daily life.

As the West Valley continues to grow, local agencies say the infrastructure for compassion must grow alongside the population. Goodyear Fire Chief Paul Luizzi said the program fills a critical void for the city’s crisis response teams.

It's just tremendous for us to find that resource and then also have a very local and committed resource to us,” said Luizzi.  “(Sound of Autism and Just Ask) support our crisis response team and our community assistance team through the police department. Those two programs are really very beneficial to our city, but they aren't helpful unless we have those resources.”

Goodyear Mayor Joe Pizzillo described the region’s community as its greatest resource, stating that Just Ask’s willingness to make change is a good example of community. 

"Our greatest resource in the West Valley is our people, people like these, who step up to help others improve their lives."

Pizzillo said the launch showed a growing regional collaboration, with leadership present from Avondale, Buckeye, El Mirage, Litchfield Park, Peoria, Tolleson, and Surprise. 

With the launch of the new a distribution and training center in Goodyear, Just Ask aims to scale its initiative across the state, one city at a time. By combining immediate physical aid with specialized education for first responders, the organization is working to ensure that the West Valley's growth is matched by an  infrastructure of community care and safety.

Visit soundsofautism.org/just-ask-outreach/ for more information.

James Goldmeer
Reporter | Goodyear & Litchfield Park

jgoldmeer@iniusa.org

Meet James
James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.

Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.

Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English. 

Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.  

Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.