Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation, a Phoenix nonprofit serving the foster care community, has received a two‑year grant totaling $150,000 from the Gila River Indian Community to support youth enrolled in the organization’s Keys to Success program.
The grant includes $75,000 per year and will provide direct client assistance, staff support for in‑person case management services, education and employment resources, and transportation assistance for participating youth, according to a press release.
The funding will support foster youth and young adults enrolled in Keys to Success, allowing services to be delivered in the communities where participants reside. The grant marks the second year of charitable support from the Gila River Indian Community, following a $50,000 contribution made to the nonprofit on Dec. 19, 2024.
“Thanks to this important funding from Gila River Indian Community, AFFCF can continue to bridge employment gaps for foster youth and provide much‑needed resources and mentorship for these young adults as they age out of foster care,” said Luis De La Cruz, president and CEO of AFFCF. “Thanks to this important funding from Gila River Indian Community, AFFCF can continue to bridge employment gaps for foster youth and provide much‑needed resources and mentorship for these young adults as they age out of foster care.”
Keys to Success is an evidence‑based program serving current and former foster youth ages 16 to 26. The program provides education and workforce development support, including education assistance, employment development, financial literacy resources, housing support and career coaching. Services include one‑on‑one job search assistance, interview preparation, application support, resume development and help with opening savings accounts.
Keys to Success serves nearly 500 youth annually across Maricopa, Yavapai and Pima counties.
In 2024, 83% of program participants earned a GED or completed high school and enrolled in post‑secondary or vocational training. Within six months of program intake, 93% of participants gained an employable skill. Within one year, 93% secured employment, and 87% of those participants retained employment for at least 30 days.
“The Gila River Indian Community is committed to supporting initiatives that remove barriers and expand opportunities for youth. This grant helps foster young adults build a foundation for independence and success,” said Roberto A. Jackson, director of communications and public affairs at the Gila River Indian Community.”
