Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation Names Amber Cordoba as Executive Director

The Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF) has named Amber Cordoba as its new Executive Director, bringing an experienced nonprofit leader and former foster parent to the organization’s leadership team.

Cordoba officially began her new role in July, following a comprehensive search by AFFCF’s Board of Directors. She succeeds Luis De La Cruz, who has served as AFFCF’s President and CEO since 2022.

“Amber’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter,” said John Keane, chair of the Board of Directors. “Her extensive leadership experience, passion for serving children and families, and firsthand understanding of the foster care system make her the ideal person to lead our organization into its next chapter. We are confident she will build on AFFCF’s strong foundation while expanding opportunities for the children, youth and young adults we serve.”

Cordoba brings more than two decades of leadership experience, including more than 10 years in the nonprofit sector. Throughout her career, she has led organizational growth, developed strategic partnerships and expanded fundraising efforts. She has secured grants and sponsorships, managed multi-million-dollar operating budgets and guided mission-driven organizations through periods of growth and transformation.

Her professional experience is complemented by a personal connection to the foster care community. Cordoba is a former licensed foster parent and has served as a state-appointed Foster Care Review Board member and family support worker for families involved with Arizona’s Department of Child Safety. That firsthand experience has given her a close understanding of the challenges facing children and families involved in the foster care system, as well as the opportunities that can help young people build stronger futures.

“This mission is deeply aligned with both my professional experience and my personal journey, and I couldn’t be more excited to work alongside this passionate community to create opportunities for children, youth and young adults navigating foster care,” Cordoba said. “I’m honored to build on the Foundation’s incredible legacy and look forward to all that we’ll accomplish together.”

Under Cordoba’s leadership, AFFCF will continue its mission of creating opportunities that build self-esteem and empower children, youth and young adults impacted by foster care. The organization provides funding for childhood activities, education, career development and other support designed to help young people pursue their goals and reach their potential.

Cordoba’s appointment comes as AFFCF builds on the foundation established under De La Cruz, whose leadership of the organization carries a particularly personal significance. De La Cruz was once a youth who benefited from AFFCF’s support.

“Serving the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” he said. “Having once been a youth who benefited from AFFCF, getting to lead and grow it is especially meaningful. I am proud of all we’ve accomplished, and I am excited to see Amber continue to lead the organization.”

With Cordoba at the helm, AFFCF will continue working to expand opportunities and provide meaningful support for Arizona children, youth, and young adults navigating foster care. For more behind this Frontdoor, visit affcf.org.