Making it a MEANINGFUL DAY Everyday!
About SYNERGY AZ
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At SYNERGY AZ, our name reflects WHO WE are and HOW WE serve.
The definition of Synergy means two or more people working together to create something greater than either could accomplish alone. It is the idea that when individuals combine their unique talents, strengths, compassion, and dedication, the result is something bigger, stronger, and more impactful than the sum of its parts.
That is exactly what happens here every day at SYNERGY AZ. Woking together WITH our members.
Our logo, the Phoenix, is also a powerful reflection of WHO WE are.
Throughout history, the Phoenix has symbolized hope, resilience, renewal, and transformation. It reminds us that from the ashes comes something even more beautiful than before. At SYNERGY AZ, we witness this transformation every day.
Founded in 2024 by Tucson siblings Bernadette, Melissa, Regina, and Mike Acedo, SYNERGY AZ was created from a shared vision of building more than an adult day activity program—it was founded to cultivate a community where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are empowered to discover their purpose, build meaningful relationships, and experience every day with dignity, joy, and opportunity.
At the heart of SYNERGY AZ is the belief that exceptional care begins with exceptional people. We recognize that our direct support professionals and team members are just as essential to our mission as the members we serve. When our employees feel valued, respected, supported, and appreciated, they are empowered to provide the compassionate, person-centered care that transforms lives. We foster a culture where kindness, empathy, collaboration, and mutual respect are experienced by everyone who walks through our doors.
Inspired by the values instilled by our parents—kindness, compassion, service to others, gratitude, integrity, and a genuine desire to uplift those in need—we have built an organization where these principles are not simply words, but the foundation of every decision, every relationship, and every interaction. Whether supporting a member in achieving a personal goal or encouraging a teammate through a challenging day, we strive to create an environment where every individual feels seen, heard, respected, and valued.
At SYNERGY AZ, compassion is more than a value—it is the culture we live each day. By investing in both our members and our team, we create a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, grow, and make a meaningful impact together.
As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SYNERGY AZ, Bernadette Acedo-Ford brings a strong foundation in public health leadership, a passion for service, and an unwavering commitment to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She holds a Master of Public Health Administration from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from the University of Arizona.
With more than eight years of experience partnering with the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), Support Coordinators, members, and their families, Bernadette has built SYNERGY AZ on the core values of integrity, compassion, authenticity, respect, and person-centered care. Her vision is rooted in the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to live with purpose, dignity, and a sense of belonging.
Together with her siblings, Bernadette is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where members are empowered to discover their strengths, build meaningful relationships, develop life skills, and actively engage in their communities. Their shared mission is to provide experiences that foster independence, personal growth, and lasting confidence while ensuring each day is purposeful, enriching, and filled with opportunity.
This commitment to excellence shapes every aspect of the program, every interaction, and every life touched by SYNERGY AZ. It is the driving force behind this organization where every member is encouraged to Discover Your Purpose! Make Your Impact!