Camp Geronimo, nestled in the pines of northern Arizona, is more than just a summer camp, it’s a chance for boys and girls to experience adventure, build friendship, new skills, and cherished memories of fun and adventure. The Thunderbirds Pool at Camp Geronimo is a central gathering point and highlight for campers all summer long. It serves over 2,000 youth each summer (2,407 in 2026) and is essential for swimming instruction, water safety certification, and structured aquatics programming. Thunderbirds Charities generosity enables Scouting Arizona to complete urgently needed repairs and renovations on the Thunderbirds Charities Swimming Pool at Camp Geronimo this year. Without these updates, future campers would face increased slip-and-fall risk due to aging deck surfaces and compromised water clarity/sanitation. Also, the camp would have struggled with escalating maintenance costs, potential operational interruptions, and lowered the pool’s interior surface’s lifespan. The generosity of Thunderbirds Charities ensures boys and girls will have access to fun, safe, and cherished memories from their time at Camp Geronimo and the Thunderbirds Charities Swimming Pool for many, many years to come. Scouting Arizona This grant is part of the Spring 2026 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees. More

Sandra Day O’Connor Institute Announces Support from Thunderbirds Charities to Advance Civic EducationPartnership expands access to nonpartisan civic learning, civil discourse, and leadership opportunities for students in Arizona and beyond. PHOENIX, Ariz. — September XX, 2026 — The Sandra Day O’Connor Institute is pleased to announce a grant from Thunderbirds Charities supporting its Youth Civic Initiatives, a year-round portfolio of Phoenix-based and online programs that help young people build civic knowledge, communication skills, and leadership experience. Founded to carry forward Justice Sandra Day O’Connor’s legacy, the nonpartisan Institute provides accessible opportunities for students and lifelong learners to better understand American government, history, democracy, and the responsibilities of citizenship. Thunderbirds Charities’ support will help sustain youth programs that reach students through in-person learning, creative competition, and virtual engagement. “We are deeply grateful to Thunderbirds Charities for their partnership and belief in the power of civic education,” said Sarah Suggs, President and CEO of the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute. “Their support helps keep meaningful civic learning opportunities accessible to students and advances Justice O’Connor’s belief that an informed citizenry is essential.”Expanding Access to Civic Learning The Institute’s youth initiatives provide multiple entry points for students to learn, lead, and participate in civic […] More

PHOENIX, Ariz. — Homeless Youth Connection (HYC) is pleased to announce a $100,000 contribution from Thunderbirds Charities to support HYC’s Empowering Youth for the Future (EYFTF) Program, helping youth experiencing homelessness stay in school, graduate, and build stable futures. Thunderbirds Charities has been a longstanding partner of HYC for more than 10 years. This investment will strengthen HYC’s ability to provide individualized case management, educational support, basic necessities, and housing assistance to youth ages 13 to 21. Over the next 12 months, HYC expects to serve more than 600 youth across Maricopa County and provide safe, stable housing to 30 unaccompanied youth. “Young people experiencing homelessness are often trying to succeed in school while navigating circumstances most of us cannot imagine,” said Dawn Bogart, Co-CEO of Homeless Youth Connection. “We are deeply grateful for Thunderbirds Charities’ continued generosity. Their investment provides youth with the stability and support they need to focus on school, overcome barriers, and build a brighter future.” Youth experiencing homelessness face more than an 87% greater risk of dropping out of high school than peers in stable housing. Through EYFTF, dedicated Youth Coaches help young people navigate barriers, access resources, remain connected to school, and prepare for […] More

Neighbors Who Care is honored to announce it has received a $30,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities. Neighbors Who Care is a nonprofit that provides non‑medical services to over 600 seniors in Sun Lakes and South Chandler through a network of vetted volunteers. All services begin with an in‑home assessment from a case manager. Essential support includes transportation to medical appointments, shopping and errands, minor home repairs, friendly visits, reassurance calls, dinner delivery, and respite for caregivers. Without this assistance, many older adults would not be able to remain safely in their homes. This funding will support the direct cost of Neighbors Who Care’s Aging in Place program, ensuring homebound older adults continue receiving the services they need. Grant funds will be used for a variety of program expenses, including van operating costs, assisting low‑income seniors with food needs, creating client events that reduce social isolation, volunteer recruitment efforts, and more. “This generous support from Thunderbirds Charities ensures that our neighbors will continue to receive the vital services that keep them safe, connected, and thriving at home,” said Terri O’Herron, Executive Director of Neighbors Who Care. “Together, we are building a stronger community where older adults can age with dignity.” Helping […] More

Thunderbirds Charities’ $15,000 investment in Per Scholas Phoenix will support Expanding Access to Technology Career Training in Phoenix, helping more Arizonans access rigorous, no-cost training and pathways to high-demand careers. Since launching in Arizona five years ago, Per Scholas has served more than 600 learners from across the state. The impact extends beyond technical skills to economic mobility: learners have historically entered training earning approximately $20,000 annually, while graduates who secure employment have achieved average post-training earnings of approximately $54,000 annually. Funds from Thunderbirds Charities will help expand training access, learner support, professional development, career coaching, and connections to employers as Per Scholas responds to Arizona’s growing demand for skilled technical talent. Current training includes IT Support, Healthcare IT, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, and IT Data Center Technician pathways. Beginning in October 2026, Per Scholas Phoenix will expand into Low Voltage Cabling Technician, Semiconductor Technician, and Critical Facilities Engineer training. To accommodate this growth, the Phoenix campus is expanding from more than 3,000 to approximately 10,000 square feet and from one classroom to three, significantly increasing training capacity. “We are not simply training people for jobs; we are helping change economic trajectories,” said Dr. Sharise L. Erby, Managing Director of Per […] More

New Life Center was awarded funding to support the essential programmatic and operational expenses of its emergency shelter during Fiscal Year 2026-2027. These funds will help ensure that survivors of domestic violence and their children have immediate access to safe housing and critical resources when escaping abusive situations. Specifically, the grant will support key shelter operations, including staffing, utilities, and essential supplies such as toiletries, clothing, baby formula, and pet care items. As New Life Center continues to grow its capacity from serving approximately 250 individuals annually to an anticipated 300 survivors and family members each year, these funds will help meet the increasing demand for safe refuge and comprehensive support services. By covering operational costs, the funding allows New Life Center to maintain a stable, welcoming environment where survivors can begin rebuilding their lives free from violence. Access to basic necessities upon arrival reduces immediate barriers and stress for families in crisis, allowing them to focus on safety, healing, and long-term stability. The impact of this funding extends beyond the shelter itself, helping create a safer, healthier community by providing survivors with the foundation they need to achieve independence, stability, and a future free from domestic violence. New Life […] More

The 100 Club of Arizona has received a $25,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities to expand critical mental health support and injury prevention resources for first responders across the Phoenix metropolitan area. This funding will help the organization expand services for more than 1,500 public safety officers and firefighters by providing timely mental health support, trauma-informed resources, and essential safety equipment designed to prevent injuries and improve operational readiness. “Every day, Arizona’s first responders face challenges most people never encounter,” said Melissa Kowalski, CEO of the 100 Club of Arizona. “This investment from Thunderbirds Charities ensures we can provide immediate support when tragedy strikes, expand access to mental health resources, and equip agencies with tools that help keep their personnel safe. Together, we’re strengthening the well-being and resilience of those who protect our communities.” Since 1968, the 100 Club of Arizona has provided financial assistance, wellness resources, safety funding, and family support to Arizona’s public safety professionals. Today, the organization supports more than 50,000 public safety professionals employed by approximately 400 agencies statewide. When tragedy strikes, the impact on first responders and their families is immediate and devastating. The 100 Club of Arizona exists to respond with compassion, understanding, and practical […] More

Thunderbirds Charities awarded GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix $50,000 to support its 2026 Health & Fitness Initiative. The funding will help individuals with Down syndrome develop healthier habits through free, age-appropriate fitness and nutrition programming. Individuals with Down syndrome can face unique health challenges that make regular physical activity and balanced nutrition especially important. This initiative will provide opportunities to improve strength, stamina, balance, coordination and overall movement skills through safe, progressive activities. Participants will also learn practical nutrition skills, explore healthy food choices and expand the variety of foods they are comfortable eating. These experiences support healthier habits, greater independence and improved long-term well-being. Grant funds will help cover staff and program leaders, healthy food and ingredients, fitness equipment, supplies and other costs necessary to provide the Health & Fitness Initiative. The funding will also support GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix in creating a healthier environment throughout the organization for participants, families and volunteers. The initiative will serve individuals with Down syndrome of all ages and their families throughout Maricopa County. As with all programming at GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix, these services will be provided at no cost, ensuring that financial limitations do not prevent families from accessing opportunities that promote lifelong health, confidence […] More

Southwest Human Development has received a $100,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities, generated by the WM Phoenix Open, to support the Birth to Five Helpline and its Fussy Baby program, Arizona’s only helpline dedicated exclusively to parents, caregivers and early childhood professionals caring for children birth to age five. Funding will sustain the Helpline Specialists who staff this free, statewide service, ensuring families can reach a trained early childhood professional by phone, text, email or online, at no cost, with no eligibility requirements and no limit on how often they reach out. Specialists provide individualized guidance on sleep, feeding, behavior and developmental concerns, along with referrals to community resources. For parents of infants who are difficult to soothe, the Fussy Baby program offers more intensive support aimed at easing caregiver stress before it compounds. Each year, the Helpline responds to roughly 6,000 contacts, many from Greater Phoenix. Callers often reach out more than once as concerns evolve, allowing specialists to build ongoing, relationship-based support rather than offer one-time advice. This grant extends a partnership between Thunderbirds Charities and Southwest Human Development spanning more than two decades, including past support for the Good Fit Counseling Center, the Children’s Developmental Center, the ADAPT […] More

Smiles for Veterans recently received a generous $25,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities. The grant will be used to provide essential dental care to low or no income veterans. The partnership of Thunderbirds Charities will help an estimated 15 veterans in Maricopa County, Arizona, receive the dental care they need for a healthy life. Procedures covered are typically tooth removal, root canals, and dentures. Veterans we help are in dire need of oral healthcare leaving them struggling to eat healthy foods, experiencing pain, and with low self-esteem. Smiles for Veterans is the only organization in the state providing dental care specifically for veterans. Our program is provided year-round, at no or low cost to those we help. All program participants are US veterans, an estimated 60% are aged 60 or older, and 30% are disabled. From our Executive Director, Jan Christensen: “We are proud to do our part to support veterans in need in Arizona, including Maricopa County. Our organization has facilitated dental care for veterans for 11 years. We partner with dental providers to receive services at a discount, allowing us to triple the impact of any funding received. We are very grateful for the support of Thunderbirds Charities for […] More

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Eight-year-old Ivory has spent years growing up at the Boys & Girls Club. At the Hartley & Ruth Barker Branch, she found help with reading, played in the gym, made friends, and began imagining what she might want to be when she grows up. Right now, that’s a veterinarian. This school year brings something new for Ivory. She’s now attending the recently opened Steve & Maria Sanghi Branch in South Scottsdale, where she’ll continue learning, exploring new interests, and working toward whatever dream comes next.Ivory is one of approximately 400 South Scottsdale youth who will benefit from a $500,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale. The funding will support afterschool programming at both the Hartley & Ruth Barker Branch and the Steve & Maria Sanghi Branch, helping make the Club affordable for families who otherwise may not be able to participate. At both Clubs, afternoons can mean homework help, a STEM project in the makerspace, time in the art room or gym, leadership opportunities, or simply having a caring adult there to listen. For families, it means knowing their children have a safe place to go after the school day ends. […] More

Thunderbirds Charities has awarded Wheel Fun a $20,000 grant to expand no-cost youth mountain biking opportunities in Pinal County, supporting an established program at Eloy Elementary School and the launch of a new program with the Gila River Indian Community Center. The investment will help provide bikes, helmets and safety equipment, coaching, maintenance, and dedicated Regional Manager support. Together, the two programs are expected to serve approximately 50 to 55 youth annually while creating lasting access to outdoor recreation in communities where opportunities and equipment can be limited. At Eloy Elementary, demand has grown enough that the school rotates groups of students throughout the year, allowing approximately 40 youth to participate annually. “The bike is really just the tool,” said Emilio Perez, Wheel Fun Regional Manager for Pinal County. “It teaches kids how to do hard things, to get back up after a fall, keep trying when something doesn’t come easily, and eventually help the rider next to them do the same. That’s how we build confidence, leadership and resilience.” Thunderbirds Charities’ investment extends beyond a single season. Bikes and equipment remain in the communities they serve, while ongoing coaching and Regional Manager support help programs grow and serve new […] More

BloomKidz is honored to announce a $25,000 grant award from Thunderbirds Charities in support of our project, Strengthening Integrated Pediatric Therapy & Family Support for Children with Developmental Disabilities. This investment will help expand access to coordinated pediatric therapy services for children with autism and other developmental needs throughout the Greater Phoenix area. Funding will support BloomKidz’s integrated model of care, bringing together Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech, occupational, physical, and feeding therapy, as well as skilled nursing and comprehensive family support services under one roof. By strengthening this integrated approach, the grant will help more children receive timely, collaborative care while equipping families with the resources and support they need to navigate their child’s developmental journey. “We’re deeply grateful to Thunderbirds Charities for investing in the children and families we serve,” said Daniel Feavel, CEO of BloomKidz. “This partnership helps BloomKidz provide access to integrated, collaborative care that changes what’s possible for children with complex medical and developmental needs and supports families and caregivers as they navigate the emotional and logistical challenges that come with their child’s care journey.” Through support from organizations like Thunderbirds Charities, BloomKidz continues its mission of providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers children to […] More

Today, the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center announced a $250,000 gift from Thunderbirds Charities to advance the final stretch of its capital campaign. Opening in 2027, the new 30,000-square-foot community space will serve as Arizona’s premier flagship resource for Holocaust history, equipping future generations to combat antisemitism, hate, and bigotry. Support from Thunderbirds Charities will directly support the physical development of the Center, bringing to life a state-of-the-art educational hub designed to welcome more than 50,000 students, educators, and visitors annually. “This generous gift from Thunderbirds Charities sends a powerful message about the necessity of remembrance and what it means to preserve testimony for future generations,” said Talli Dippold, President and CEO of the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center. “The Center will serve as a permanent anchor for truth, honoring memory, and ensuring that our community has a space to learn about Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust.” As the largest metropolitan area in the U.S. without a dedicated Holocaust museum, Phoenix is home to approximately 60 living Holocaust survivors and hundreds of their descendants. By weaving local survivor testimony into interactive, immersive exhibits, the Center will connect global history to the Arizona community in a deeply personal […] More

Phoenix, AZ – one·n·ten, Arizona’s largest provider of social & supportive services for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, announced today that Thunderbirds Charities has renewed their grant funding vital programs and services at its Downtown Phoenix Youth Center, ensuring LGBTQ+ youth and young adults have access to safe, affirming, and inclusive spaces. With the support of Thunderbirds Charities, one·n·ten will continue the essential programs provided at its youth center year-round, programs such as 2gether N Color, a culturally grounded group by and for LGBTQ+ Black, Indigenous, and youth of color that is a safe, supportive space for BIPOC youth to explore their identities, connect with peers, and build a strong sense of community; Trans & Gender Non-Conforming Group, a peer support group aimed at providing transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive youth with resources, trusted adults who reflect their identities, and a welcoming space to learn, explore, and ask questions while also incorporating Sources of Strength, an evidence-based suicide prevention program; and Art Club, a creative space where youth can explore self-expression through a variety of art mediums. “While our programs are often the focus when speaking of the Youth Center, the physical space itself is also host to a plethora […] More

The $100,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities will provide 2,500 identification documents to individuals and families across Arizona through Homeless ID Project’s statewide identification assistance program. While the grant will help cover the costs of obtaining replacement Arizona state IDs and birth certificates—including document fees, postage, printing, technology, and staff support—the impact goes far beyond the documents themselves. These are opportunities. For a parent, an ID can mean the ability to apply for a job and provide for their family. For a senior citizen, it can mean accessing benefits, healthcare, or housing. For someone experiencing homelessness, it can be the first step toward stability and a place to call home. Homeless ID Project provides these critical documents at no cost to clients and works through partner agencies and outreach locations to make services accessible to people throughout Arizona. “We are incredibly grateful to Thunderbirds Charities for this generous investment in the people we serve,” said Megan Loden, Development Director of Homeless ID Project. “This grant will provide 2,500 identification documents, but what we’re really providing is 2,500 opportunities for people to work, find housing, access services, care for their families, and move forward. An ID may be a piece of plastic […] More

Down Syndrome Network Arizona (DSNetwork) has received a $25,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities to support its Adaptive Fitness & Wellness Initiative, a year-round program helping youth and young adults with Down syndrome stay active, build healthy habits, and create meaningful connections. The grant will support direct program costs, including specialized instruction, facility use, and adaptive equipment for Down to Box adaptive boxing, Buddy Up Tennis, Adaptive Pickleball, dance-based fitness, Yoga and Mindful Movement, and Down to Earth therapeutic gardening and nutrition. For people with Down syndrome, staying active supports many aspects of health, including strength, balance, coordination, heart health, and overall well-being. DSNetwork makes health and wellness fun and interactive through unique programs designed specifically for individuals with Down syndrome. Beyond physical health, these programs give participants opportunities to try new things, build confidence and independence, develop friendships, and stay connected to their community. By bringing fitness, wellness, and social connection together, DSNetwork is helping youth and young adults establish healthy habits and discover activities they can enjoy throughout their lives. “Thunderbirds Charities’ support allows us to create opportunities where health, friendship, and fun come together,” said Jennifer O’Connell, Executive Director of Down Syndrome Network Arizona. “This investment will have […] More

Junior Achievement or Arizona (JA) is proud to announce that Thunderbirds Charities has awarded a $100,000 grant to support JA BizTown, a hands-on program that helps 4th through 6th graders learn economic and workplace skills through a series of classroom and hands-on lessons and experiences designed to teach skills for future success. “The need for real-world education is growing as we see strong current and predicted changes in the economic landscape,” said Katherine Cecala, president of Junior Achievement of Arizona. “The generous funding from Thunderbirds Charities helps us advance our mission and expand pathways for today’s youth. It is our responsibility to prepare Arizona’s next generation, so they have the skills and confidence they need to seize opportunities and face challenges.” The funding will provide an estimated 1,136 students with the opportunity to take part in the JA BizTown program. Students begin building their life and career skills in a series of classroom lessons where they learn about working in and being consumers in today’s world through topics like business plan development, calculating operational costs, developing marketing campaigns, applying for jobs, and more. Once they’ve explored those skills, they put what they’ve learned to work by becoming employees for a […] More

Foothills Caring Corps is honored to announce it has received a $25,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities to support its community-centered approach that helps older adults and adults with disabling conditions remain independent, connected, and engaged through the power of meaningful human relationships. The grant will help expand the organization’s comprehensive network of services, including volunteer training and engagement, non-emergency medical transportation, Mobile Meals, friendly visits, social outings, caregiver support, and other programs designed to reduce isolation and empower Neighbors to continue living safely and independently in their own homes. While these services provide practical assistance, their greatest impact is often something less tangible: connection. Volunteers deliver meals and stay to chat, Neighbors enjoy lunch with new friends, rides to medical appointments suddenly include conversation and laughter. Foothills Caring Corps is creating opportunities for seniors to remain connected to the people and community around them. “We often say we’re in the relationship business,” said Brent Downs, Executive Director of Foothills Caring Corps. “Our volunteers certainly provide essential services, but what they’re really delivering is friendship, compassion, and the reassurance that someone cares. Thanks to Thunderbirds Charities, we’ll be able to continue building those lifechanging connections for local Neighbors.” Research continues to […] More

Phoenix, AZ – NAMI Valley of the Sun (NAMI VOS) is proud to announce that Thunderbirds Charities has awarded a $25,000 grant to support the expansion and strengthening of NAMI On Campus clubs throughout Arizona. This funding will enable NAMI Valley of the Sun to launch six new NAMI On Campus clubs while also providing enhanced support and resources to six existing NAMI On Campus clubs. Through this initiative, students will gain greater access to peer-led mental health education, awareness activities, advocacy opportunities, and support networks on their campuses. NAMI On Campus clubs are student-led, student-run organizations that empower young people to promote mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and create supportive school environments. These clubs serve as an important resource for students navigating mental health challenges while fostering a culture of understanding and help-seeking. “We are incredibly grateful to Thunderbirds Charities for investing in youth mental health,” said Kristina Sabetta, Executive Director of NAMI Valley of the Sun. “This funding will allow us to expand the reach of NAMI On Campus and support students as they create meaningful change within their schools and communities. By establishing new clubs and strengthening existing ones, we can ensure more young people have access […] More

Feeding Matters has received a $40,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities to expand Feeding Hope, a program providing trauma-informed support to Arizona families navigating complex pediatric feeding disorders.The program connects caregivers of children with Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) to education, peer mentorship, and community resources at a time when many families struggle to find knowledgeable providers and timely diagnoses. PFD affects an estimated 2.3 million children in the United States each year, yet many families report their child’s feeding challenges are dismissed as “picky eating,” leaving parents without guidance or support. Funding from Thunderbirds Charities will help Feeding Matters expand several family services, including one-to-one caregiver mentoring, a seven-day-a-week support hotline, a virtual resource platform with webinars and provider directory, and the Patient Readiness and Empowerment Program course (formerly Family First). The program will also provide family educational guides in English and Spanish and host an annual summit that connects families with healthcare professionals and advocates. “For families navigating feeding disorders, the journey can be isolating and overwhelming,” said Heidi Van Der Molen, senior manager of family support programs at Feeding Matters. “This support ensures Arizona caregivers have access to the tools, community, and guidance […] More

Nourish Phoenix, a trusted community hub serving low-income individuals and families across the Valley, has been named a recipient of the Thunderbirds Charities Fall 2025 Grant. NourishPHX has received $75,000 to support its emergency services programming, sustaining the core operations at the heart of its mission and ensuring families in crisis can stabilize and move toward self-sufficiency. These funds help keep NourishPHX’s emergency food pantry open and stocked, providing 200–250 food boxes each day and distributing more than 3.5 million pounds of food annually to over 25,000 unduplicated community members. The grant also supports the clothing room, where neighbors can access professional attire, children’s clothing, and essential household items that help stretch tight budgets. Additionally, funding strengthens the Job & Resource Center, which connects job seekers to computers, hiring fairs, and one-on-one coaching designed to remove barriers to employment and promote long-term stability. By addressing both immediate needs and pathways to income, the program helps individuals move from crisis to independence. NourishPHX also collaborates with more than 40 community partners who provide vital wraparound services on-site, including haircuts, veterinary care, financial and nutrition education, cell phones, vaccines, and health screenings—offered free or at low cost. This investment ensures NourishPHX can […] More

The Real World Job Development (RWJD) Program at Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) has been generously funded by Thunderbirds Charities to support at-risk and opportunity youth, ages 16–24, as they transition from instability to self-sufficiency. This investment directly funds individualized career pathway services, including vocational training, job readiness workshops, academic support, and intensive case management. Funds will be allocated to expand hands-on workforce development opportunities, provide essential wraparound supports such as transportation assistance, certification costs, and basic needs, and strengthen employer partnerships that lead to meaningful, sustainable employment. RWJD’s evidence-based model focuses on removing barriers to success while equipping youth with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to secure and retain employment or pursue post-secondary education. The impact on the community is significant. By stabilizing young people early, RWJD reduces long-term reliance on public systems, interrupts cycles of poverty, and builds a stronger, more resilient workforce in Maricopa County. Participants leave the program not only employed or enrolled in school, but with a clear pathway toward economic independence. “Thunderbirds Charities’ support is transformational,” said Tina Lopez, Vice President of Philanthropic Services at JFCS. “This investment allows us to meet young people where they are, remove barriers that stand in […] More

Support from Thunderbirds Charities is making it possible for the Center for the Rights of Abused Children to expand the Pro Bono Children’s Law Clinic and deliver life-changing legal services to children in Arizona’s foster care system. Right now, approximately 10,000 children are in the custody of the Department of Child Safety due to abuse and neglect, and nearly 1,000 teens age out of foster care in Arizona each year—often without family connections, housing, or resources. This funding goes directly toward providing legal representation, advocacy, and counseling for children who have endured abuse, neglect, abandonment, or trafficking—removing obstacles that stand in the way of their education, employment, and long-term stability. With support from Thunderbirds Charities, our attorneys help youth reclaim stolen identities, expunge eligible juvenile records, and obtain critical documents such as birth certificates and Social Security cards. These services break down barriers that so often keep foster youth from graduating, finding work, securing safe housing, or even voting. Studies show that 20% of young adults aging out of foster care experience homelessness immediately, and 25% are incarcerated within two years. By investing in this work, Thunderbirds Charities is helping to change these outcomes. We provide direct legal aid to […] More

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The Thunderbirds – hosts of the WM Phoenix Open – announced today the 2026 edition of “The People’s Open” raised a record-breaking $20.1 million ($20,154,600) for local charities, marking the highest single-year total in tournament history. This is the first time the event has surpassed $20 million in charitable giving in a single year and the ninth time it has exceeded the $10 million mark. It also represents the fourth consecutive year the tournament has set a new fundraising record, surpassing last year’s total of $18.1 million. “The WM Phoenix Open continues to show what’s possible when this community comes together behind a greater purpose,” said 2026 Tournament Chairman Jason Eisenberg. “Eclipsing the $20 million mark for the first time – and continuing to build on that momentum year after year – speaks to the dedication of our group, our partners, and the greatest fans in golf who make this event what it is. The impact of these dollars goes far beyond tournament week, supporting organizations across Arizona and changing lives throughout the year.” Since WM was named title sponsor in 2010, The Thunderbirds and the WM Phoenix Open have now raised more than $180 million ($180,336,848) […] More

PHOENIX, AZ – Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) & Thunderbirds Charities have joined forces once again in 2026 to collaborate on a series of workshops focusing on the Mental Health & Leadership Development for PCA Youth, Sports & Education Initiatives in Arizona. Through Thunderbirds Charities and its generous support of PCA with a $25,000 grant, PCA will have the opportunity to expand its work with underfunded schools and Youth Sports Organizations in Maricopa County to teach the valuable leadership and life skills/ lessons that can be taught through sport. “Thunderbirds Charities exemplifies what’s possible when leadership, philanthropy and community purpose come together”, said Rich Tomey, PCA Sr. Regional Director. “Their work continues to elevate PCA’s Mission in Arizona by funding programs that create real, lasting change for generations to come. Without their support, PCA would be limited in providing much-needed resources for Arizona’s underserved schools and youth organizations that see the value in PCA programming.” “Thunderbirds Charities is proud to support Positive Coaching Alliance and its commitment to strengthening the mental health, leadership development, and overall well-being of Arizona youth through sports,” said Matt Mooney, President of Thunderbirds Charities. “By investing in programs that empower coaches, students, and families with meaningful […] More

Chandler, AZ – Oakwood Creative Care (OCC) is thrilled to announce a generous grant award from Thunderbirds Charities to furnish its newly opened Chandler location — a vibrant new home for brain health, connection, and community. Opened in the summer of 2025, OCC’s Chandler campus is already buzzing with activity and hope. The location brings together an Adult Day Club, Hub, and an on-site clinic under one welcoming roof — making brain health support more accessible than ever for families navigating dementia and other age-related challenges, as well as individuals eager to embrace their own brain health journey. Thanks to Thunderbirds Charities, the Chandler campus looks forward to filling the space with thoughtfully selected furnishings that do far more than complete a room. OCC is excited to furnish areas with comfortable seating that invites conversation and laughter, flexible tables that transform into art studios, music spaces, and learning centers, and warm, welcoming common areas that create opportunities for connection and belonging. For OCC, every piece plays a role in shaping an environment where members feel safe, valued, and inspired. “We believe the environment shapes experience,” said Sherri Friend, President and CEO of Oakwood Creative Care. “This grant allows us to create spaces that […] More

Act One, a charitable organization in Arizona focused on providing arts education access to all students, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographical location, is combining technology, education and arts with its groundbreaking virtual reality (VR) field trip program, is pleased to announce a $25,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities. The grant will fund virtual reality field trips for over 5,000 Phoenix-area students. “Arts education can be delivered in a variety of formats, but with Act One’s VR field trip program, we are able to provide an innovative, growing, cost-effective and research-driven experience for middle and high school students and educators. Arts education is critical to today’s students and their future successes, which is why we are grateful for this grant from Thunderbirds Charities that will allow us to serve thousands of Phoenix-area students attending Title I schools,” said Dr. Beth Maloney, Executive Director of Act One. The VR field trip experience, also known as Arts Immersion™, is designed to provide a 360° immersive visual and audio journey for fifth- through 12th-grade students across the state. Thanks to virtual reality headsets and educator-built content, more than 31,000 students in Arizona have participated in this unique experience since its launch in 2021. The […] More

New Pathways for Youth is honored to announce we have been awarded a $25,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities to support and expand our Level Up Academy program. Level Up Academy is a 10-week, school-based initiative designed to support underserved youth in Phoenix, particularly students facing multiple Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and barriers such as homelessness, foster care involvement, or justice system involvement. Through evidence-based curriculum focused on goal setting, personal development, and college and career readiness, the Academy helps students build resilience and strengthen their vision for the future. With Thunderbirds Charities’ investment, New Pathways for Youth will expand Level Up Academy to serve up to 140 students across several high-need schools, strengthening school engagement, graduation readiness, and long-term success.“Thunderbirds Charities has been a trusted partner we can count on since 2014, and we are deeply grateful for their continued belief in our mission,” said Karen Johnson, President and CEO of New Pathways for Youth. “Their long-standing support helps ensure that youth facing the greatest barriers have access to the resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to stay in school and build a future filled with possibility.” Thunderbirds Charities, established in 1986, distributes funds raised through the WM Phoenix Open […] More

Homelessness in Arizona has reached alarming levels, with significant growth among families and youth. According to the 2025 Arizona Housing Forum, families with children now comprise 21% of the homeless population, a 15% increase from the previous year. Additionally, unaccompanied homeless youth have increased by 24% since 2017. Save the Family’s Pathways to Stability Program addresses this urgent need by helping families identify individualized goals and overcome barriers to long-term self-sufficiency. Through trauma-informed, evidence-based services, the program supports families as they transition out of homelessness and toward lasting stability. “Housing alone is not enough to ensure family stability,” said Robyn Julien, Chief Executive Officer of Save the Family Foundation of Arizona. “Families overcoming homelessness need consistent, compassionate support that addresses trauma, strengthens economic mobility, and helps parents navigate complex systems. This grant from Thunderbirds Charities allows us to continue creating lasting change for hundreds of families across our community.” The Pathways to Stability Program provides comprehensive support to families in our housing programs, including individualized case management, behavioral health services with an on-site trauma therapist, transportation assistance, career services, and children and youth services delivered by Triple P-certified staff. With support from Thunderbirds Charities, Save the Family expects to serve […] More