Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
Arizona Financial Credit Union is announcing the launch of the Arizona Financial Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening local communities through financial empowerment, charitable giving, and long-term community investment.
Building on the success of Arizona Financial’s Local Causes Visa debit card program, which has awarded over $600,000 in grants to hyper-local nonprofits since its inception in 2020, the foundation will serve as an expanded platform to deepen the credit union’s community outreach and philanthropic efforts.
“The impact we’ve made through our Local Causes and other debit card programs is just the beginning,” said Amy Hysell, president and CEO of Arizona Financial Credit Union, in a prepared statement.
“The launch of Arizona Financial Foundation represents our long-term commitment to supporting the communities we serve in an even bigger way. The Foundation will allow us to provide greater financial assistance, expand partnerships, and drive meaningful change for local nonprofits and community programs across the state.”
The Foundation will focus on four key pillars:
1. Financial Literacy & Education – Providing individuals, nonprofits and small businesses with essential financial knowledge to make informed decisions and achieve long-term financial security.
2. Support for First Responders – Honoring Arizona Financial’s historic ties to police, fire, and emergency personnel by offering resources and support to those who serve and protect our communities.
3. Domestic Violence Awareness & Assistance – Partnering with organizations that provide safe spaces, resources, and advocacy for survivors of domestic violence.
4. Community Engagement – Ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have access to financial resources and opportunities to thrive within their communities.
“This foundation is all about furthering our connection to the nonprofits that fill gaps within the communities we live and work in,” said Rachel Galvez, executive director of Arizona Financial Foundation. “Each of our giving pillars reflects not only a community need but a cause that resonates with us personally. We’re honored to walk alongside organizations doing truly life-changing work.”
Arizona Financial will actively seek donations from vendors, members, and employees, strengthening its grantmaking capacity.
However, its efforts go beyond financial contributions as the Foundation will foster hands-on community support through volunteerism, networking opportunities, and financial education, ensuring a well-rounded approach to community engagement.
“Our employees are already deeply engaged in the community, which has sparked significant interest from partners and members wanting to contribute,” said Jason Paprocki, Arizona Financial EVP & chief strategy officer. “Previously, we lacked a formal structure to accept donations. The Foundation now provides that essential mechanism, allowing us to partner more effectively and significantly increase our community impact.”
