Unforgettable Fun & Neon Memories

More Colorful Opportunities Headed Your Way!

On Saturday, February 8th, runners, walkers, volunteers and spectators came out to enjoy the most colorful fun-filled day of their lives at Tumbleweed Park in Chandler for the Color Vibe 5K. They came prepared to be blasted with more color than their happy levels could handle — all in support of Arizona’s Children Association’s (AzCA) children and families in the community. We would like to thank everyone who came out for this exciting event and for your support of Arizona’s Children! An additional thank you to AzCA employees, volunteers and board members who joined in the fun!

 

Couldn't make it? See what’s in store for Yuma and Tucson!

 

Check out these great photos from the Color Vibe 5K in Chandler! You can also check us out on Facebook for more photos and videos from the event! Click here to see a short clip from the event!

Join us for a morning not to be forgotten! 

Saturday, March 22 @ Gateway Park in Yuma

 Why not color outside the lines while being active, social, and a little wacky! The Color in Motion 5k gives you all these benefits plus unforgettable fun and heaps of memories! By the end of the CIM5k your blank canvas will be brighter than ever — your clothes, health, and outlook on life will be changed for the better! For a limited time, use the code “AZCA” for $5 off! For more information, or to register, visit www.colorinmotion5k.com/Yuma.

Get Ready to 'Get Bubbly!'

 

Saturday, March 29 @ Southwestern International Raceway in Tucson

 

The Neon Bubble Dash is a unique nighttime run and foam party that illuminates the sky all along its 5k route. Participants will run, walk, skip or dance their way into the foam-infested Neon Zones and Glow Caves throughout the course.

The fun doesn’t stop at the finish; all participants receive free entry in the ‘Get Bubbly’ foam party! You’ll also have the opportunity to challenge your friends and fellow Neon Bubble Dashers to illuminating field games! For a limited time, use the keyword “AZCA” & save $10 off of registration! Register today at www.NeonBubbleDash.com.

AzCA announces new Chief Development Officer Shawn Elmore

Arizona's Children Association is pleased to announce the selection of Shawn Elmore as the agency’s new Chief Development Officer. As the Chief Development Officer, Shawn will be responsible for the fundraising and marketing activities of the agency.

Shawn has more than 15 years experience developing successful fundraising and marketing campaigns for numerous non-profit organizations, Fortune 50 companies, as well as numerous political organizations and candidates. Most recently, Shawn served as Development Director for Susan G. Komen Central and Northern Arizona. Prior to that position, Shawn served in fundraising roles for the Arizona Democratic Party and Georgetown University. Shawn holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Willamette University and is a graduate of the ASU Generation Next Nonprofit Leadership Academy.

THRIVE Mentor Program

Mentors for Young Adults Aging Out of Foster Care

According to the Arizona Department of Economic Security, in Fiscal Year 2012, 723 young adults aged 18 and older left foster care. Without family or the support from a caring adult, statistics indicate that many of these young adults will experience homelessness, incarceration and/or poverty. In an attempt to improve the success of teens ‘aging out’ of foster care, Arizona’s Children Association (AzCA) has created THRIVE, a mentor program designed to enhance support for young adults involved in Independent Living Services.

 

In May of 2013, AzCA was awarded a statewide DES contract for the Independent Living Program which teaches essential life skills to youth aging out of the foster care system. In order to improve the lives of transitioning youth, AzCA decided to bring mentors on board to develop supportive, positive relationships that assist the young adults reach their full potential.

THRIVE is actively recruiting community members and foster care alumni to be mentors for young adults (ages 17-19). Mentors are asked to commit to working with their mentee for two years in order to assist them in their transition into adulthood. THRIVE mentors must be at least 21 years old, demonstrate life skills and achievement, be relatable to youth, and have at least one year’s experience working with adolescents. All mentors receive the training, support and resources necessary to understand the transition planning process and to cultivate a successful mentor relationship.

THRIVE is statewide and dedicated to one-on-one mentoring that helps foster care youth thrive and achieve the same success as their peers who are not involved in foster care including: reduced rates of homelessness and teen pregnancy, increased rates of graduation, job stability, social skills, and healthy adult connections.

 

Stephanie is an eighteen year old who is part of AzCA’s Independent Living Program. She has been matched with a mentor for several months and is grateful for the time they spend together.

 

“She is a dedicated parent. She is a good example for me and I hope to gain some of the knowledge she has,” said Stephanie. “[She’s] trustworthy, successful and a great leader. I really like her. I hope for the qualities that she has and I will learn a lot for the future.”

 

Click here to learn more or to get started!

Questions? Email Mentor@arizonaschildren.org or call 1-844-747-1533.