#United States #Phoenix #Desert Financial #education grants #Arizona Nonprofits

Desert Financial Credit Union's Continued Support for Arizona Education

In a remarkable display of support for the educational landscape in Arizona, Desert Financial Credit Union has announced the renewal of $292,500 in grants, benefiting 23 local nonprofits dedicated to enhancing education. This funding represents the second year in a two-year grant cycle aimed at allowing organizations to expand their impactful programs. With a focus on early childhood development and family support, Desert Financial is cementing its commitment to creating opportunities for communities across the state.

The significance of these grants is highlighted by stories from beneficiaries like Andrea Reyna, a parent involved with Educare Arizona, part of Southwest Human Development. Reyna shared how the resources provided allow her daughter to thrive in a nurturing environment while enabling her to pursue her own educational aspirations. "This program has allowed me to pursue my education while knowing that my child is in a safe place and in an environment that she loves," Reyna expressed. The $15,000 grant awarded to Southwest Human Development this year aims to assist 188 children and their families by providing high-quality early learning opportunities and comprehensive family services.

Eve DelReal, Director of Early Head Start at Southwest Human Development, emphasized the broader impact of such support, stating, "This investment from Desert Financial will help us advance our vision to ensure a positive future for every child in Arizona." The importance of empowering families reaches beyond immediate benefits, with decades of research indicating that investments in early childhood education create long-term societal advantages.

Founded in 1939 by a dedicated group of schoolteachers, Desert Financial Credit Union has a deep-rooted history of advocating for education and community development. Jack Biggs, Executive Vice President of Desert Financial, articulated a profound belief in the future: "When we support young children and their families, we're building a stronger future for all of Arizona." This year’s renewed funding brings the credit union's total grant support to nearly $2.3 million, a testament to the enduring impact and ongoing dedication of Desert Financial.

The grant renewal process offers stability to nonprofits, allowing them to continue their vital work without the added hurdle of resubmitting applications. The following organizations are among the recipients of this year's funding:

• - A New Leaf: $15,000 for early childhood education targeting low-income families in Phoenix.
• - Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona: $15,000 for STEM programming for youth aged 6-17 in Prescott and the surrounding areas.
• - Catholic Charities Community Services: $15,000 for tutoring and educational support for unaccompanied refugee minors in Phoenix.
• - Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters: $15,000 to enhance youth service programs in Yavapai County.
• - Children's Museum of Phoenix: $7,500 to provide reduced-price STEM field trips for needy children.

These grants serve as a lifeline for educational initiatives, fostering the growth and development of children and families in Arizona. From facilitating access to technology and resources to enhancing after-school programs, the diversity of support reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing educational challenges.

In connecting local nonprofits with the resources they need, Desert Financial Credit Union is not just offering financial aid; they are also reinforcing the belief that every child deserves an opportunity to succeed. This holistic vision is designed to create a ripple effect, positively affecting generations to come.

For those interested in discovering more about Desert Financial's charitable initiatives, additional information can be found at DesertFinancial.com/Community. As Arizona's most trusted local credit union, with over 85 years of history and approximately $9 billion in assets, Desert Financial continues to prioritize the well-being of its community, ensuring that both members and their families thrive together.

Together, these investments fuel hope and build pathways toward a better future, one child at a time, underscoring the essential role of community support in educational advancement.