Phoenix, AZ — Valleywise Health Foundation is thrilled to announce that Thunderbirds Charities has awarded a generous $125,000 grant to support the expansion of its innovative First Episode Centers in Avondale and Mesa. These centers provide critical, evidence-based treatment and support services for adolescents and young adults experiencing their first episode of psychosis. Thunderbirds Charities’ gift is part of a larger fundraising campaign, led by Stardust Foundation’s contribution to expand the impact of this transformative initiative.
The First Episode Centers at Valleywise Health are the only evidence-based programs of their kind in Maricopa County. They offer comprehensive services including recovery coaching, counseling, family education, supported education and employment, peer support, and medication management. These services are designed to help young individuals recover and continue pursuing their life goals, such as education, career development, and maintaining meaningful relationships.
“We are incredibly grateful to Thunderbirds Charities for this generous support,” said Lisa Hartsock, Interim CEO of Valleywise Health Foundation. “Mental health challenges, especially among young people, are at a crisis point in our community. The expansion of our First Episode Centers means more families will have access to life-changing care at a critical time. With this grant and other philanthropic support, we will be able to reach more individuals, ensuring they receive the early intervention services essential for long-term recovery and success.”
The First Episode Centers’ team-based approach eliminates delays in care by providing rapid assessments and comprehensive, recovery-oriented services. Early intervention is proven to reduce disruptions in education and employment, decrease hospitalizations, and improve both physical and mental health outcomes. Valleywise Health’s model ensures a welcoming environment, far removed from traditional mental health clinics, helping to break down stigma and encourage young people to seek help.
“Thunderbirds Charities is proud to support Valleywise Health Foundation’s First Episode Centers,” said [NAME], [TITLE] at Thunderbirds Charities. “The work they are doing to provide early intervention for brain health conditions is vital to the well-being of our community’s youth. We believe that this grant will significantly impact the lives of young people and their families, providing them with the tools and support they need to lead fulfilling lives.”
The $125,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities, awarded on December 12, 2024, marks another milestone in a longstanding partnership between the two organizations. Previous support from Thunderbirds Charities includes:
2023: $500,000 for the Thunderbirds Charities Pediatric Burn Unit
2020: $50,000 for COVID-19 relief and support efforts
2019: $200,000 for the Peoria Specialty Care Center Family Learning Center
2018 & 2016: $50,000 each for Mariposa – Wings to Safety
2013: $82,000 for the Chandler Family Resource Center
With one of the fastest-growing populations in the nation, Maricopa County’s need for behavioral health services continues to rise. Valleywise Health Foundation and Thunderbirds Charities remain committed to addressing these needs by expanding access to essential programs like the First Episode Centers, ensuring that Arizona’s youth have every opportunity to thrive.
For more information about Valleywise Health Foundation and how you can support programs like the First Episode Centers, please visit ValleywiseHealthFoundation.org. To learn about Valleywise Health visit valleywisehealth.org.
This grant is part of the Fall 2024 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.