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 hundreds of children and equip professionals and caregivers across Arizona with the knowledge to better support those in their care. With Thunderbirds Charities’ continued support, we are on track to increase our impact by 25% in 2025, ensuring even more children receive the protection and opportunities they deserve. This commitment is transforming lives and helping Arizona’s most at-risk youth build brighter futures.

Center for the Rights of Abused Children

This grant is part of the Fall 2025 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.