Desert Financial Takes Major Step Forward with Arizona Cardinals Foundation Support

Strengthening Community Ties: Desert Financial's New Role with Arizona Cardinals Foundation

Desert Financial Credit Union is delighted to announce a significant expansion in its collaboration with the Arizona Cardinals by becoming a foundational partner of the freshly established Arizona Cardinals Foundation. This organization is particularly focused on supporting families and individuals in Arizona dealing with special needs.

A Shift Towards Support for Special Needs Families

The Arizona Cardinals Foundation has emerged as a successor to the previous Cardinals Charities, intensifying commitment to offering assistance to individuals with various intellectual and developmental disabilities, which include conditions like autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and traumatic brain injuries.

This partnership is not just about financial backing—it's about establishing a long-term commitment to effecting meaningful change in communities across Arizona. Jeff Meshey, the President and CEO of Desert Financial Credit Union, emphasized the essence of collaboration, stating, "The mark of a true partnership is to lift each other up in all spaces. Because Desert Financial and the Arizona Cardinals share a vision of helping to improve the community, it's much easier to be successful collaborators."

Building on a Strong Foundation

Since being named the official banking partner of the Arizona Cardinals in 2024, Desert Financial Credit Union set forth on a path that prioritizes fan engagement, financial education, and community outreach. The formation of the Arizona Cardinals Foundation is a natural progression that amplifies Desert Financial's longstanding commitment of over 85 years to community service and support.

Michael Bidwill, owner of the Arizona Cardinals, shared his appreciation for Desert Financial's ongoing support, stating, "We are incredibly grateful to Desert Financial for its tremendous support and collaboration over the years, but especially for the way it is enthusiastically embracing Arizona Cardinals Foundation and its mission. Desert Financial's partnership will undoubtedly enhance the Foundation's ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in the special needs community."

Focus on Key Nonprofits

As part of the launch of the Arizona Cardinals Foundation, multi-year funding was committed to four vital nonprofit partners: the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC), Barrow Neurological Foundation, Special Olympics Arizona, and Treasure House. Each of these organizations plays a critical role in supporting families and individuals affected by various disabilities, thus laying a groundwork for impactful initiatives.

If you'd like to know more about contributing to or supporting the Arizona Cardinals Foundation, information is available on their official website at AZCardinals.com/foundation. Simultaneously, for insights into how Desert Financial is giving back to the community, customers and community members are welcome to visit DesertFinancial.com/Community-Involvement.

About Desert Financial Credit Union

With a history surpassing 85 years, Desert Financial Credit Union is a well-respected financial institution in Arizona, serving over 475,000 members with nearly $9 billion in assets. The credit union prides itself on providing unmatched service through its 50+ locations throughout Arizona, coupled with highly-rated digital banking options. Recently, in 2025, the members of Desert Financial received a substantial $16 million return through the Member Giveback Bonus, highlighting their commitment to their members and community.

Furthermore, Desert Financial holds the titles of the official banking partner for several institutions, including Arizona State University® and NAU Athletics.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Desert Financial and the Arizona Cardinals Foundation marks a significant commitment to enhancing the lives of many families across the state, particularly those in need of additional support and resources.