The Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center is in the final stages of a fundraising campaign that could see new facilities placed around the Valley.

The organization announced this week it is on its final stages of its “A to Z and Everywhere in Between” capital campaign that has a goal of $13 million.

The funds would develop four new SARRC locations — one in the East Valley, one in the West Valley, one in the north Phoenix/north Scottsdale area, and one each in Flagstaff and Tucson, said Dr. Daniel Openden, president and CEO of SARRC, in a press release.

“Every dollar raised makes a difference,” he said.

The goal for the organization is to have nine campuses by 2030. It comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in April released a study that shows roughly 1 in 31 children in Arizona are diagnosed with autism, defined by the National Institute of Mental Health as a spectrum of disorders that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn and behave. It is classified as a neurological and developmental disorder.

“Thanks to the incredible hard work and generosity of so many Arizonans, $12 million is already in hand toward our $13 million goal,” said Maureen Jorden, SARRC’s chief development officer, in a press release. “The finish line is in sight — and the impact on autism support services in Arizona will be game-changing.”

The capital campaign will bring autism services to communities across Arizona, offering evidence-based programs that support individuals with autism from early childhood through adulthood.

“Camilla started at SARRC’s Community School in Tempe, Arizona, soon after her autism diagnosis. With limited vocabulary, finding a way to help her communicate was key. I can’t imagine her life without SARRC,” says Camilla’s mom, Jackie Goodluck. “She wouldn’t be where she is now.”

People who want to support the effort can visit autismcenter.org/AtoZ.