Arizona Capitol Times Your Inside Source for Arizona Government, Politics and Business
Arizona charitable giving improves thanks to tax credit law change
Arizona isn’t exactly the most charitable state.
According to one survey, in fact, it’s dead last. And that means Arizonans could certainly give more.
Whether they’re conscious or not of Arizona’s reputation, legislators have over the years hunkered down to encourage charitable giving.
Tough childhood, opportunity to give drives Sinema to run for charities
In 2011, I was preparing for my first marathon. I spent months training. Weekends filled with long runs, carefully increasing my distance, ready to tackle those 26.2 miles.
One week before the race, Gabby Giffords was shot. I immediately knew I had to do something to help. I sent an email to my friends, asking them to donate money or blood to the Red Cross to help the victims of the shooting. The response was overwhelming.
Valley of the Sun United Way targets hunger, homelessness, kids, families
Valley of the Sun United Way has been investing in local communities for nearly a century with a unique model of bringing together public services, businesses, other nonprofits, and faith-based organizations.
With more than 90,000 donors, 700 business supporters, and 5,000 volunteers, United Way is the largest nonprofit in Maricopa County.
State employees contribute millions of dollars to charities, look to give even more
The State Employees Charitable Campaign has raised $26 million for Arizona charities since its inception. This October marks the fundraiser’s 25th anniversary, and SECC is aiming to raise more money than ever have before.
SECC is a workplace-giving program that allows state employees to pledge a portion of their paychecks to an organization of their choice. Last year, SECC donated $798,000 to charities in Arizona. This year, the goal is to raise $1 million.
Lawyers help others with free or reduced legal services
Today, more than ever, Arizonans face myriad legal challenges involving divorce, child support, domestic violence, housing and eviction issues, civil rights, debt collection, consumer protection, and denial of medical, educational or government benefits.
The cost of legal services can be daunting, and even in our most urban settings, approximately 20 percent of our residents live at or below the federal poverty level. That percentage is often higher in rural areas. This population, however, is particularly vulnerable when faced with legal issues involving basic necessities of life.
