ACF and Burton Propel Verde Valley Nonprofits with $335K Boost

The Arizona Community Foundation of Sedona held its annual grant awards ceremony on Friday, November 15, coinciding with National Philanthropy Day. This year, the foundation awarded an impressive total of $229,700 in grants to 63 local nonprofits during an event held at the Sedona Performing Arts Center. The Burton Family Foundation, known for its collaboration with ACF in rural nonprofit funding, contributed an additional $105,310.

ACF Vice President Jennifer Perry emphasized the significance of the day: “It’s a day to celebrate the good in the world,” she stated. “In light of the challenges we face, today reminds us of the collective impact we can achieve by coming together as a community.”

Among the recipients, the Cornville Community Association received $3,500 to support initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare. This includes financial assistance for low-income students and an immunization drive in partnership with Yavapai County.

The Emerson Theater Collaborative was awarded $3,600 for its upcoming production focusing on domestic violence, with proceeds directed to the Verde Valley Sanctuary. Producer Camilla Ross expressed gratitude for the funding, noting its importance for delivering high-quality performances.

The Sedona Arts Center also benefitted from a $3,100 grant, celebrating the 20th anniversary of its annual plein air festival which attracted around 2,000 attendees and featured 21 participating artists. “Each artist is their own entrepreneur,” said CEO Julie Richard, highlighting the festival’s economic impact.

In support of musical initiatives, the Sedona Symphony received $3,600 for performances at the Sedona Winds Retirement Community. President Margaret Davis noted a growing emphasis on collaborations, including a recent partnership with the Sedona Public Library.

Rental assistance for families in need was bolstered by a $3,500 grant to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, along with an additional $5,000 from the Burton Foundation. Volunteer Maureen Koza reported significant demand for assistance, especially from occupants of manufactured homes.

Additionally, the Low Income Student Aid program was allocated $7,000 to address urgent needs of low-income families, while Sedona Toys for Tots received $2,600 to purchase toys for older children. Local coordinator Angela Thomas highlighted challenges in securing donations for this age group.

Sedona Area Veteran and Community Outreach received $2,300 to support its annual Memorial Day Service, and the Sedona Community Food Bank obtained over $4,000 for a refrigerated van to enhance food delivery services.

“We really need more funds to meet increasing community demands,” Perry remarked. She encouraged local contributions to the community fund to amplify future grants. ACF reviewed 98 funding applications through the efforts of 50 volunteers before finalizing the awards.

Looking ahead, ACF plans to release an updated Northern Arizona Giving Guide, which will outline additional projects that were not funded due to resource constraints. “Education is a priority for us,” said Sheri Denny, ACF Regional Director, adding that many applications focused on educational needs.

For more information on starting a charitable fund or making donations, interested community members can contact Denny at sdenny@azfoundation.org or call (928) 399-7210.