At Charity Charge, it is our privilege to learn about progress being made around the United States. We’re excited to share some amazing stories about the incredible work happening in Phoenix, AZ.
The city is buzzing with nonprofits that are dedicated to tackling all sorts of challenges, from homelessness and hunger to education and health care. These organizations truly make a real difference in people’s lives every day, and so we’ve put together a list of 15 standout Phoenix nonprofits that are truly shaping their community.
Let’s dive in and celebrate their missions, histories, and the awesome impacts they’re having on the Phoenix community and beyond:
Impactful Phoenix Nonprofits Enhancing Lives and Communities
1. St. Mary’s Food Bank
- Mission: To alleviate hunger through the gathering and distribution of food while encouraging self-sufficiency, collaboration, advocacy, and education. St. Mary’s Food Bank aims to fight hunger by not only providing food but also promoting long-term solutions to food insecurity.
- History: Established in 1967, St. Mary’s Food Bank is the world’s first food bank and has become a model for food banks worldwide. Founded by John van Hengel, the organization pioneered the concept of food banking and has inspired similar efforts globally.
- Impact: Annually, St. Mary’s Food Bank distributes more than 100 million pounds of food to families in need across Arizona. Through its extensive network of partners and volunteers, the food bank reaches thousands of households, ensuring that no one goes hungry. This organization stands out among Phoenix nonprofits for its innovative approach to hunger relief and community support.
2. Phoenix Rescue Mission
- Mission: To provide Christ-centered, life-transforming solutions to persons facing hunger and homelessness. Phoenix Rescue Mission focuses on delivering comprehensive care that includes spiritual, emotional, and physical support.
- History: Founded in 1952, Phoenix Rescue Mission has been a beacon of hope for individuals and families experiencing homelessness and addiction. Initially starting as a small mission providing basic necessities, it has expanded to offer a wide range of services including shelter, rehabilitation, and job training.
- Impact: The mission serves thousands of meals each day and offers comprehensive rehabilitation programs to help people regain stability. Through its various initiatives, Phoenix Rescue Mission helps individuals transition from crisis to stability, making it a cornerstone among Phoenix nonprofits addressing homelessness and addiction.
3. UMOM New Day Centers
- Mission: To prevent and end homelessness with innovative strategies and housing solutions that meet the unique needs of each family and individual. UMOM provides a continuum of care that includes emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing.
- History: Since its founding in 1964, UMOM has been dedicated to providing shelter and support to homeless families in Phoenix. It started as a small shelter and has grown into Arizona’s largest provider of services for homeless families.
- Impact: UMOM helps over 15,000 individuals annually, offering emergency shelter, housing programs, and supportive services. The organization’s comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness has made it one of the most impactful Phoenix nonprofits in this sector, providing not just housing but also the support needed for families to achieve long-term stability.
4. Sojourner Center
- Mission: To overcome the impact of domestic violence one life at a time. Sojourner Center provides a safe haven and comprehensive support services for victims of domestic violence.
- History: Established in 1977, Sojourner Center is one of the largest domestic violence shelters in the United States. It was founded to address the urgent need for safe housing for women and children fleeing abuse.
- Impact: Each year, the center provides safe housing and support services to thousands of women and children escaping domestic violence. Through its holistic services, Sojourner Center helps survivors rebuild their lives, offering everything from emergency shelter to long-term support, cementing its role as a critical player among Phoenix nonprofits.
5. Arizona Humane Society
- Mission: To save the most vulnerable animals and enrich the lives of pets and people. The Arizona Humane Society is dedicated to rescuing, healing, adopting, and advocating for animals in need.
- History: Founded in 1957, the Arizona Humane Society has grown to become a leader in animal welfare and veterinary services. The society has developed numerous innovative programs to address the needs of homeless, sick, and injured animals.
- Impact: The society saves thousands of animals annually through rescue operations, medical care, and adoption programs. Its efforts not only provide immediate relief for animals in crisis but also promote long-term animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. The Arizona Humane Society is a standout among Phoenix nonprofits for its significant contributions to animal welfare.
6. Make-A-Wish Arizona
- Mission: To grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. Make-A-Wish Arizona aims to bring life-changing experiences to children facing serious illnesses, offering them moments of happiness and respite.
- History: Established in 1980 in Phoenix, Make-A-Wish Arizona is the founding chapter of the international Make-A-Wish organization. It began with the wish of a young boy named Chris Greicius, whose dream of becoming a police officer inspired a global movement.
- Impact: The chapter has granted over 6,000 wishes, providing hope and joy to children and their families during difficult times. By fulfilling these wishes, Make-A-Wish Arizona helps to improve the emotional and physical well-being of its beneficiaries, making it a standout among Phoenix nonprofits dedicated to children’s health and happiness.
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7. Valley of the Sun United Way
- Mission: To break the cycle of poverty for families in Maricopa County. Valley of the Sun United Way focuses on creating lasting change by addressing the root causes of poverty through strategic initiatives and partnerships.
- History: Since 1925, Valley of the Sun United Way has been addressing critical community issues through collaborative efforts and funding. The organization has a long history of mobilizing resources and community support to tackle pressing social challenges.
- Impact: The organization supports numerous programs that impact education, health, and financial stability, benefiting thousands of residents. By fostering collaboration among local agencies and providing essential services, Valley of the Sun United Way plays a vital role in the network of Phoenix nonprofits working to create a better future for all.
8. Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona
- Mission: To transform children’s trauma to resilience through the arts. Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona uses creative expression to help children heal and develop coping skills.
- History: Founded in 1993, Free Arts provides therapeutic art programs to children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or homelessness. The organization was established to offer a safe and supportive environment where children can express themselves and find hope.
- Impact: Each year, the organization serves over 8,000 children, helping them heal and build resilience through creative expression. By integrating art into their recovery process, Free Arts stands out among Phoenix nonprofits for its unique and effective approach to supporting vulnerable youth.
9. Advance Community
- Mission: To improve health and provide hope for families in the poorest communities of the world through sustainable disease prevention, education, and treatment. Advance Community focuses on creating healthier futures through comprehensive health interventions.
- History: Since 1970, Advance Community (formerly Esperança) has been delivering health education and services to underserved communities locally and globally. The organization was founded by Luke and Blanche Snipes, inspired by their missionary work in Bolivia.
- Impact: The organization impacts over 100,000 lives annually through health education, medical missions, and community development projects. Advance Community’s holistic approach to health and its commitment to sustainable solutions make it a key player among Phoenix nonprofits dedicated to global health and community development.
10. Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix
- Mission: To empower young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix aim to provide a safe and nurturing environment where youth can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
- History: Established in 1946, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix provides after-school programs and activities for children and teens. Originally starting with a single club, the organization has expanded significantly over the decades to meet the growing needs of the community.
- Impact: Serving over 27,000 youth annually, the clubs offer safe spaces for academic support, mentorship, and personal development. Through a variety of programs, including educational assistance, sports, arts, and leadership training, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix play a crucial role among Phoenix nonprofits in fostering the growth and success of young people.
11. Circle the City
- Mission: To create and deliver innovative healthcare solutions that compassionately address the needs of men, women, and children facing homelessness. Circle the City focuses on providing comprehensive medical care to the homeless population in Phoenix.
- History: Founded in 2008, Circle the City provides comprehensive healthcare services to homeless individuals in Phoenix. It began with a medical respite center and has since expanded to include mobile medical units and outpatient clinics.
- Impact: The organization serves thousands of patients each year through its medical respite center, mobile medical units, and outpatient clinics. By addressing both immediate healthcare needs and long-term health challenges, Circle the City stands out among Phoenix nonprofits for its innovative approach to homeless healthcare.
12. HabiStore
- Mission: To build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. HabiStore supports Habitat for Humanity’s mission by generating funds through the sale of donated home improvement items.
- History: A program of Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona, HabiStore sells donated home improvement items to fund home-building projects. The store has been a significant source of revenue for Habitat’s efforts in the Phoenix area.
- Impact: Proceeds from HabiStore have helped build and renovate hundreds of homes for low-income families in the Phoenix area. By providing affordable home improvement items to the public and funding crucial housing projects, HabiStore is an essential part of the network of Phoenix nonprofits focused on housing stability and community development.
13. Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence
- Mission: To lead, advocate, educate, and collaborate to prevent and end sexual and domestic violence in Arizona. The coalition works to create a coordinated response to these issues, ensuring that survivors receive the support they need.
- History: Since 1980, the coalition has been a powerful voice for survivors and a leader in efforts to combat sexual and domestic violence. It was founded to address the lack of services and support for victims and has since grown to become a statewide organization.
- Impact: The coalition provides training, advocacy, and support to thousands of individuals and organizations across the state. By promoting policy changes, offering resources, and facilitating education, the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence is a key player among Phoenix nonprofits working to end abuse and support survivors.
14. Phoenix Children’s Foundation
- Mission: To provide hope, healing, and the best healthcare for children and their families. The foundation supports Phoenix Children’s Hospital in delivering top-quality pediatric care.
- History: Founded in 1983, Phoenix Children’s Hospital has grown to become one of the largest children’s hospitals in the country. The foundation was established to ensure the hospital has the resources needed to offer specialized care.
- Impact: The foundation raises funds to support the hospital’s critical programs and services, benefiting thousands of children each year. Through community donations and fundraising efforts, the Phoenix Children’s Foundation ensures that the hospital can continue to provide cutting-edge medical care, making it a vital part of the landscape of Phoenix nonprofits.
15. Native American Connections
- Mission: To improve the lives of individuals and families through Native American culturally appropriate behavioral health, affordable housing, and community development services. Native American Connections focuses on holistic, culturally sensitive approaches to health and well-being.
- History: Established in 1972, Native American Connections has been a cornerstone of support for Native American communities in Phoenix. It began as a small organization offering substance abuse treatment and has since expanded to provide a wide range of services.
- Impact: The organization serves over 10,000 people annually, offering a wide range of services that promote health, well-being, and self-sufficiency. By providing behavioral health services, affordable housing, and community development programs, Native American Connections is a leader among Phoenix nonprofits in supporting Native American communities and fostering long-term sustainability and growth.
These Phoenix nonprofits exemplify the dedication and compassion needed to support and uplift the community. Through their diverse programs and services, they address critical issues and provide essential resources, fostering a more inclusive and equitable Phoenix. By supporting these organizations, we can help ensure that all residents have the opportunity to thrive. The collective impact of these nonprofits not only enhances individual lives but also strengthens the entire community, making Phoenix a better place for everyone.
