Staff Reports | Community Updates
Fiesta Sports Foundation has launched Circle of Champions, a new partnership platform designed to create year-round engagement opportunities with organizations that support the Foundation’s community initiatives.
Phoenix Children’s has joined the program as its inaugural founding partner and will serve as the Foundation’s official youth health and wellness partner, according to a press release.
The new initiative expands on the Foundation’s traditional sponsorship model by offering organizations naming rights to a signature event or program along with participation in multiple Foundation programs, events and hospitality experiences throughout the year.
Fiesta Sports Foundation and Phoenix Children’s have partnered since 2011, contributing nearly $1 million toward pediatric emergency and trauma care, inclusive play opportunities and patient-focused programs. The partnership has also included more than a decade of support for the Give-A-Thon, hospital visits, Fiesta Bowl Parade participation and other community initiatives benefiting Arizona children and families.
“Circle of Champions is our premium partnership platform for organizations that want to connect their business, their people and their purpose to Arizona and to the Fiesta Sports Foundation in a deeper and more meaningful way than a simple sponsorship. Our approach with partners in this program is ‘what can we accomplish together’ rather than ‘what assets do you want to buy,’” Erik Moses, executive director and CEO of Fiesta Sports Foundation, said. “We often talk about the power of teamwork in sports, and to achieve big goals, you need committed teammates. Phoenix Children’s plays a pivotal role in Arizona and their addition to our community engagement platform will allow both organizations to achieve even greater success together.”
As a founding partner, Phoenix Children’s will participate in a variety of Foundation programs and initiatives throughout the year, including the AED Assistance Program, Wellness Forum, Wishes for Teachers, youth football and flag football programs, patient and family experiences, and community engagement activities statewide.
Naming rights for the signature event associated with the partnership are expected to be announced this fall.
“At Phoenix Children’s, we have a bold vision to improve the health of a generation,” John R. Nickens IV, president and CEO of Phoenix Children’s, said. “Partnering with Fiesta Sports Foundation helps us reach even more children and families where they learn, play and grow. By working together to support the health and well-being of Arizona’s kids, we can help them build a healthy future.”
Foundation officials said Circle of Champions is intended for organizations seeking long-term involvement and measurable outcomes through participation across multiple programs and initiatives.
Organizations interested in learning more about the Circle of Champions program can visit the Foundation’s website or contact Bryce Hancock for additional information.
Over the past 15 years, Fiesta Sports Foundation has provided $35 million in charitable funding across Arizona and has supported programs in all 15 counties and 22 tribal communities. The organization serves more than 1 million Arizonans and reaches more than 600,000 youths annually through sporting events and charitable programs focused on youth, sports and education, according to a press release.
