AZCEND

When Kathy arrived in Chandler, she was facing homelessness, struggling to make ends meet and unsure where to turn.

"I was hungry," Kathy recalls. "I was extremely hungry, and I was embarrassed to tell her that."

At AZCEND, a volunteer welcomed her with kindness, a meal and information about food assistance programs.

More than the food, Kathy remembers how she was treated.

"They don't make me feel small. They lift me up."

Today, Kathy wants supporters like you to know the difference you've made in her life.
"You're definitely making a difference in my life, and I want to thank you personally."

Watch Kathy's story: https://azcend.org/story/kathys-story/

A full plate can change a child's future.

When school is out for the summer, many families face additional challenges keeping nutritious food on the table. That's why AZCEND is proud to participate in Nourish the American Dream, a nationwide campaign through the Albertsons Companies Foundation's Nourishing Neighbors program.

From July 1–7, your gift will help provide groceries, fresh food and hope for East Valley families while supporting a broader effort to address childhood hunger.

Because every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

Learn more at: https://azcend.org/nourishing-neighbors/

Creativity and confidence were on full display at this year’s Giggles, Squiggles & Squirms student art showcase.

The classroom transformed into a colorful gallery inspired by artists including Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, Picasso and Monet as children proudly shared their artwork with family members and loved ones.

Programs like GSS help children build creativity, confidence and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

Learn more about Giggles, Squiggles & Squirms at: https://azcend.org/get-help/family-resource-center/

Staying cool this summer can be as simple as slowing down, staying inside and spending time with people you enjoy.

At AZCEND, Rummikub is a favorite way for seniors to connect at the Senior Center, while children in Giggles, Squiggles & Squirms love tackling puzzles together in the classroom.

As temperatures rise across Arizona, remember to stay hydrated, avoid peak afternoon heat and check in on neighbors and loved ones during extreme temperatures.

Don’t forget: AZCEND also provides Heat Relief & Respite services with nourishing food, water and safe, cool spaces during Arizona’s hottest months.

Learn more about Heat Relief & Respite services at: https://azcend.org/get-help/heat-relief/

Twenty-five little grads are ready for what comes next.

This month, children in AZCEND’s Giggles, Squiggles & Squirms (GSS) program celebrated graduation with proud families, tiny caps and gowns and big smiles before heading to kindergarten this fall.

Through GSS, children build early literacy, confidence and social skills alongside their parents and caregivers in a welcoming environment designed to help young learners thrive.

“Every one of these kids has something special to offer the world,” shared Head Teacher Miss Laura.

Read the full story at: https://azcend.org/twenty-five-little-grads-are-ready-for-what-comes-next/

May is Older Americans Month.

AZCEND supports older adults across the East Valley through Senior Centers in Chandler and Gilbert, meal delivery and wellness checks for homebound seniors, and the East Valley Senior Home Sharing Program serving Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa and Tempe.

Last year, more than 19,000 meals were served on-site at AZCEND Senior Centers, and more than 36,000 meals were delivered to neighbors who are homebound.

Because of compassionate community support, older adults across our community can remain connected, cared for and independent.

Learn more about senior programs at: https://azcend.org/get-help/seniors/

For 60 years, AZCEND has been a trusted partner to neighbors across our community.

When you give monthly, you provide steady, reliable support that helps families stay housed, children learn and seniors stay connected.

Join the Growing Together Monthly Giving Club and help build what comes next.

Join today: https://azcend.org/ways-to-give/give-monthly/

Save the date for AZCEND’s biggest night of the year.

Join us for an evening of community, celebration and impact at the Spirit of AZCEND Gala & Casino Night.

Dinner, drinks, live auction and casino games all in support of neighbors facing hunger, homelessness and poverty.

Registration opens in August. Stay tuned.

When temperatures rise, staying hydrated becomes critical.

You can make a real difference right now by helping ensure every neighbor has access to water during extreme heat.

Donate bottled water or small Gatorade bottles, or bring your community together to host a hydration drive. Every contribution helps keep neighbors safe this summer.

Learn more about hosting a hydration drive: https://azcend.org/ways-to-give/food-drives/

Neighbors need more than relief when the heat rises. They need a safe place to rest, recharge and find connection.

Because of support from our community, AZCEND’s Heat Relief & Respite program provides a welcoming space where neighbors can cool down, share a meal and take the next step forward during the most dangerous months of the year.

Read the full story to learn more about the impact this work is making across our community: https://azcend.org/when-heat-rises-neighbors-find-hope-at-azcend/