“We are so fortunate that Yavapai County supports our competitive grant cycle so generously each year,” said Sahady. 
When announcing the event, Lisa Sahady, regional philanthropic advisor for the Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County (ACFYC), said it has been two years since the ACF has been able to schedule the luncheon because of the restrictions caused by the pandemic.
Five organizations were cited this year as “Shining Stars,” Sahady said. She emphasized these five had been selected from among dozens in the county because of the direct and positive impact they have had upon people’s lives in the communities they served. “Peoples’ lives have been changed because of what these special organizations have done,” she said.
Organizations named are:
Firefighter Angel Foundation (FAF), Prescott Valley
This non-profit foundation is directed by Cody and Tammy Rose, the executive director and project manager. Its purpose is to offer positive impacts for children and families in crisis or severe need. The group provides holiday deliveries to families that have fallen on hard times or are facing a difficult loss. FAF also collects and distributes food boxes and other items during the holiday season.
Natural History Institute (NIH), Prescott
Administered by Bob Ellis and a four-person staff, NIH combines traditional tools with modern technology and proactive strategies to pursue research questions and the study of sciences, humanities and arts, especially those that represent the biodiversity of the Mogollon Highlands eco-region. Members emphasize a connecting with the natural world.
Old Town Mission (OTM), Cottonwood
This faith-based organization provides valuable support to Verde Valley residents who have serious personal or family needs. It is praised by the ACF for providing food, clothing, transportation and other resources to those in need for years. It also operates a thrift store and sponsors events to generate funds to cover its expenses and help the community.
Prescott Farmers Market (PFM), Prescott
Active in the area for 25 years, the Prescott Farmers Market involves more than 30 local vendors who share their products at summer and winter open markets. This non-profit supports local farmers and ranchers in Yavapai County and creates access to affordable locally grown food. PFM also supports collaborative efforts such as Carrots for Kids, Prescott Seed Library and Chef in Action. The ACF views the PFM as a “local incubator” that helps stimulate a healthy community.
United Animal Friends (UAF), Prescott
This volunteer-based non-profit organization provides rescue programs and services to pets. Governed by an eight-member board, UAF assists with rescuing, spaying and neutering, and finding foster homes for animals. UAF helps hundreds of people and pets through supporting Community Pet Food Bank and emergency medical programs throughout the county.
The ACF recently issued grants totaling $582,841 to diverse organizations, a 16% increase above last year because of a new donor. “We are so fortunate that Yavapai County supports our competitive grant cycle so generously each year,” said Sahady. “We think it is because individuals trust in our review process that we are able to help non-profits through the county in their service to our communities.”
She also applauded volunteers who serve on review committees to screen grant applications each spring. “These dozens of people, who must remain anonymous, volunteer an unimaginable amount of personal time scrutinizing the multi-page grant applications. For nearly three months, these panels examine funding requests ranging from $1,000 up to $20,000. I can’t praise them enough for their time and critical thinking.”
Tickets for the Joy of Giving program are available at the ACF office, 300 E. Willis, Suite B, in Prescott. For more information, call 928-583-7815. QCBN
By Ray Newton, QCBN
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