By Howard Sobelman | Thoughts on Innovation
Investing in the potential of individuals of all abilities in our communities and making meaningful, lasting change in our state is a year-round effort. Beyond holidays and fundraising events, Arizonans can carry the spirit of giving forward and write the next chapter of an organization, particularly by supporting causes in simple ways through the Arizona Tax Credit.
As an advocate for neurodiverse populations and a board member of several organizations, including One Step Beyond, supporting inclusive opportunities for individuals of all abilities is a cause close to my heart and a mission I am passionate about advancing. The disability community relies on collective support to provide meaningful experiences and enriching programs that help individuals meet their goals, try new things, and gain independence. I’ve witnessed firsthand how organizations like One Step Beyond can transform lives, including my son Tyler.
One Step Beyond’s valuable vocational training, life skills development, adaptive sports, arts programs, and more thrive with the help of the Arizona Tax Credit, which sustains and expands the diverse services that impact nearly 700 adults and their families.
The Arizona Tax Credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your taxable liability, allowing individuals or joint filers to contribute directly to qualifying charitable organizations without impacting their financial standing. Individuals can contribute up to $470, while joint filers can contribute up to $938, directing funds toward nonprofits that need our help to fill the gaps and make a difference in local communities, like One Step Beyond, Inc., a local nonprofit with locations across the Valley providing programs and services for adults with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Claiming the Arizona Tax Credit is straightforward. Once you’ve made your donation, simply keep your receipt, file Arizona Form 321, and submit the form with your tax return. You can also inform your tax professional to ensure the credit is applied properly. Only qualifying organizations certified by the Arizona Department of Revenue are eligible for this program, so your contribution is secure and will go directly to the organization of your choice.
Before the filing deadline on April 15, 2025, consider how a modest contribution can have a significant impact and how positively influencing others to donate can bring even more money to local nonprofits for all causes.
The Arizona Tax Credit offers communities a front-row seat to see the direct benefits of their actions this tax season and shines a spotlight on key organizations. Through this program, qualifying organizations such as One Step Beyond can continue to fulfill the critical support needs faced by individuals with disabilities. This funding drives the mission of creating a fully inclusive community, where individuals with intellectual disabilities are recognized for their potential, talents, and contributions to society.
The opportunity to give doesn’t stop there! You can continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals who have intellectual disabilities through Arizona Gives Day on April 1, 2025. This statewide movement unites Arizonans to give back and celebrate local nonprofits that need it most. If you can’t give financially, consider offering your time as a volunteer or sharing your expertise to make a change.
Creating a more inclusive Arizona begins with a contribution from you. The positive impact is in the hands of taxpayers this season, and you can open doors with a tax benefit, while holding the door open for others through the giving power of the Arizona Tax Credit.
Editor’s Note: Howard Sobelman is the father of triplets including a 26-year-old special needs son, a One Step Beyond Board member, Chair of the First Place Board, Board member of the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center and a partner at Snell & Wilmer.
