GLENDALE, AZ – Thunderbird Charities, the charitable giving arm of the Thunderbirds – hosts of the Waste Management Phoenix Open presented by Ak-Chin Indian Community recently awarded One Step Beyond, Inc. $50,000 grant to support the expansion of their Catering Program, allowing for an increase in employment opportunities for its participants.
The One Step Beyond Culinary Training and Catering Program teaches adults who have intellectual disability the basic cooking skills necessary for independent living. Upon graduation from the Culinary Training Program, participants who show an interest in expanding their culinary skills have the option of moving towards paid employment through the One Step Beyond Catering Company.
Last year, the One Step Beyond Catering Company catered approximately 55 catering events in addition to catering lunch daily for participants and staff on the Glendale and Surprise Campuses. With this grant, the One Step Beyond Catering Company will be able to purchase a dedicated catering van and the equipment and service items that are needed to secure larger catering events and uniforms for additional employees.
Mike Homco, One Step Beyond’s Senior Vocational Program Director stated, “We strive to provide employment opportunities for our members and are being given a chance to purchase equipment that will enable our organization to be a competitor in the catering sector. Our members were ecstatic when told we would be getting improved uniforms, equipment, and a new van!”
“One Step Beyond empowers individuals with special needs, allowing them to find independence and enrich their lives,” said Andy Markham, President of Thunderbirds Charities. “We’re honored and privileged to help with the Catering expansion that will allow more opportunities for OSBI’s members.”
With the help of charitable organizations like the Thunderbird Charities, more of One Step Beyond’s members are able to gain skills needed for gainful employment in the culinary field. One Step Beyond is grateful for the opportunity created for its participants by Thunderbird Charities.
One Step Beyond was founded in 2003 and provides dynamic, responsive programs that engage the goals, talents, and interests of individuals who have intellectual disability and empower them to achieve their dreams of optimal independence, enriching social networks, and effective participation in our community.
ABOUT THE THUNDERBIRDS/THUNDERBIRDS CHARITIES
Thunderbirds Charities is a non-profit organization formed in 1986 to distribute monies raised through the Waste Management Phoenix Open golf tournament. The Thunderbirds Charities Board consists of 15 board members from varying professional backgrounds. The mission of Thunderbirds Charities is to assist children and families, help people in need and improve the quality of life in our communities. The organization’s giving is directed toward organizations based or with a significant presence in Arizona. The Thunderbirds were founded in 1937 with the mission of promoting the Valley of the Sun through sports. The Thunderbirds consist of 55 “active” members and more than 250 “life” members. For more information on the Thunderbirds or the 2018 Waste Management Phoenix Open, visit www.wmphoenixopen.com.