Desert Botanical Garden Employee Celebrates 50-Year Tenure

This year, Wendy Hodgson, Desert Botanical Garden’s herbarium curator emerita and senior research botanist, is celebrating her 50th year with the organization. The longest-tenured employee at the Garden, Hodgson’s journey began in January of 1974, when she watched the Garden transform from staff working in makeshift trailers outside of Webster Auditorium to the world-class organization […]

Fearless Kitty Rescue Named Fountain Hills Nonprofit of the Year

Fearless Kitty Rescue, a shelter dedicated to providing cats a safe place to stay until they find permanent homes, was named the Fountain Hills nonprofit of the year at the 50th Anniversary gala for the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce in May. “Fearless Kitty Rescue is very proud to accept this award on behalf of […]

Rainbow Ryders Donates Flights to Pediatric Cancer Patients and Families

Rainbow Ryders, the largest hot air balloon company in the Southwest, recently donated rides to five families impacted by pediatric cancer in collaboration with Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children. On June 5, National Hot Air Balloon Day, the participating families arrived at Rainbow Ryders’ Glendale location at dusk to experience a sunrise view from the […]

AZ Blue Builds Postpartum Kits for New Moms

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Foundation for Community & Health Advancement hosted a Day of Action to support the mental health of new moms across Arizona. On May 22, AZ Blue employees built 125 postpartum kits and affirmation cards for mothers and babies to recognize Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month. In the latest […]

Creating Culture: Drawing on Tradition

Arizona is a one-of-a-kind place. It’s blessed with beautiful weather, awe-inspiring scenery and booming industries. But what makes Arizona truly special is its people and rich culture. In the heart of downtown Phoenix lies an arts organization with a narrative uniquely its own. Xico (pronounced “she-co”) is one of the oldest ethnic arts organizations in […]

6 New Honorees Inducted into the Scottsdale History Hall of Fame

The Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce inducted six prominent Valley leaders and organizations into the Scottsdale History Hall of Fame during a ceremony held on May 7, at The Scottsdale Resort and Spa. “It’s a privilege to honor those who have played pivotal roles in making Scottsdale the vibrant city it is today. The legacy […]

Creating Culture: Why Not?

As far back as Jules Gissler can remember, she has been an artist.  From day one, she felt it was her calling to create. She recalls making up stories with friends about little people living in their hats. She even DIY’d her own Barbie Dreamhouse. Growing up in Montana, Gissler was often chosen by her […]

A New Leaf and Homeward Bound Announce Strategic Acquisition

A New Leaf, a leading provider of shelter services and programs for families in need across the Valley, recently announced its acquisition of Homeward Bound, a Valley shelter and transitional housing provider known for its Strong Foundations Early Childhood education program. “By merging Homeward Bound within A New Leaf, everyone wins. Homeward Bound continues to […]

The Literary Society of the Southwest Announces 2023-24 Grantees

The Literary Society of the Southwest, a nonprofit that supports literature and promotes literacy throughout Arizona, recently announced their 2023-24 grantees. These donations were made through its Literacy Grant Challenge, a fundraising goal for the 2023-24 season. Thanks to the generosity of the Literary Society of the Southwest’s 650 members and sponsors, the original $30,000 […]

Over $2M in Donations from Lerner & Rowe Gives Back

Lerner & Rowe Gives Back, the nonprofit arm of Lerner & Rowe Injury Attorneys, donated more than $2 million in 2023 through community events, giveaways and grant funding. The organization is dedicated to providing assistance to youth programs across Arizona through its philanthropic efforts. It donated $583,000 to over 70 nonprofit events in the youth […]