Season for Sharing benefits so many in need of a helping hand!
In 2020, the Arizona Republic annual holiday giving campaign, Season for Sharing raised $2.1 million from community donors like you and me to support 176 charities in our state. As a multi-year donor to this fund, I love the fact that with each dollar donated I can support so many great organizations who make an impact across a wide spectrum of nonprofit work. Season for Sharing focuses on groups that provide services for older adults, children and families, and education. The beneficiary list is a “who’s who” of the best charities in Arizona.
As the former CEO of Arizona Helping Hands, I saw first-hand the inner workings of this program. Applications for funding are accepted through the fall (October 22nd was this year’s deadline). Each request must be from an established 501(c)(3) organization that can demonstrate a proven track record of making an impact on our community, and must include information on history and operational budget.
The grant review process includes an initial screening by the Arizona Community Foundation (“ACF”) who has deep roots in our community and a history of distributing funds to worthwhile causes for more than 40 years. This is followed by final approval from a grant review committee which includes Arizona Republic employees as well as representatives of ACF and the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust.
At Arizona Helping Hands, I remember the pride we felt when the award letter was received. The $10,000 grant was used to provide beds and cribs to children in foster care. These dollars gave boys and girls who had been abused and neglected a safe place to sleep.
Among other worthy recipients, dollars were granted to: Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children to provide social, emotional and financial support to families dealing with pediatric cancer; Arizona Housing for housing support of low-income older adult residents; Family Promise Greater Phoenix to rescue families with children and their pets from homelessness; Nourish Phoenix to provide food, clothing and services to struggling children, adults and seniors throughout Phoenix; and Treasures 4 Teachers to provide free school supplies to students and educators.
Dollars donated to Season for Sharing benefit so many in need of a helping hand. During these seemingly endless days of the pandemic, these funds will truly make a difference in the lives of people struggling to make it through to tomorrow.
I encourage you to join me as a donor to Season for Sharing. Your gift will have an impact on the lives of thousands through almost 200 charities who are doing the hard work every day to make our community a better place for all.
To make your donation, CLICK HERE or text “SHARING” to 91-999 and follow the link. The Arizona Republic covers all administrative costs, so 100% of your contribution goes to local nonprofits!
Dan Shufelt, the former CEO of Arizona Helping Hands, has been involved in the charity world as an executive and grant maker for many years.
If you enjoy learning of caring people and the amazing work they devote their energy to advance, be sure to sign up for Dan’s blog (see sign-up form below).
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