The spirit of giving is strong here in the North Valley, especially this time of year. So many worthy nonprofit organizations benefit from essential donations to keep making a difference in their communities, while donors earn a dollar-for-dollar tax credit on their gifts.
In Arizona, the state allows taxpayers to donate to a charity — instead of paying income tax — up to $800 for a joint tax return or $400 for a single tax return.
With so many nonprofits, it can be difficult to choose just one. Anthem’s Rotary Club is the local chapter of the international organization that serves to create change within the community. Last month, the local club held an inaugural gala dinner and auction to support local charities—giving back 70 percent of the event’s donations raised to this year’s nonprofit recipients—Anthem Cares Through Service, Anthem Giving Circle, Daisy Mountain Veterans, and Smiles 4 Sick Children.
“For over 20 years, Anthem Rotary Club has contributed generously to local charities and causes, with more than $1 million given to worthy organizations right here in our greater Anthem area,” said Joe Alvarez, Anthem Rotary Club’s president. “We are people of action, so when our neighbors are in need, we get to work to raise funds and provide support that makes a meaningful positive impact.”
Here are some of the many local organizations that thrive with support from the local community through tax-deductible contributions.
Anthem Cares Through Service (ACTS)
Assisting Anthem area individuals and families in need of assistance with utility bills, groceries, meal preparation and other services. ACTS was founded in 2009, and has over 150 volunteers.
Info www.anthemacts.org
Anthem Giving Circle
Assists with rent, utilities, medical expenses, or other bills to families in need, coordinated through St. Rose Parish’s conference of St. Vincent de Paul. Provides gift cards to local schools.
Info www.anthemgivingcircle.com
Anthem Pets
This nonprofit consists of dedicated volunteers and fosters working 365 days a year to give dogs and cats a second chance at life. Pets are placed in foster care and receive wellness check-ups, vaccinations, microchipping and are spayed or neutered before adoption. Need for volunteers is ongoing.
Info www.anthempets.org
Daisy Mountain Veterans
Established in 2012, composed of former service members, active duty military, or those interested in the well-being of veterans and their families, this nonprofit is actively involved in community service programs and special projects to honor and support those who have served and currently serve in our military.
Info www.daisymtnvets.org
Foothills Food Bank
Providing food and financial assistance to those in need within the North Phoenix area for 35 years. Last year, 1.7 million pounds of food was distributed. A wish list is available online and donations can be dropped off at the food bank’s distribution centers in New River, Black Canyon City or Cave Creek. A new campus is under construction off Carefree Highway for expanded food storage.
See website for info about the building campaign and how to donate.
Info www.foothillsfoodbank.com
Monetary donations can be made online, or checks made payable to Foothills Food Bank, and mailed to Attn: Donor Services, 6038 E. Hidden Valley Drive, Cave Creek, AZ 85331.
Rusty’s Angels Sanctuary
Providing care for displaced or abandoned senior and special needs canines. Donations help with food, shelter, medical, grooming and transportation expenses. Building multiple tiny houses with individual rooms at the sanctuary for those who take up permanent residency is an ongoing goal to provide a peaceful environment.
Info www.rustysangelssanctuary.org
Smiles 4 Sick Children
Providing toys and gifts for the kids at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, this Anthem-based charity was founded in 2013 in honor of one young girl who passed away too early. The effort continues to grow each year, with more than 30,000 toys donated since the nonprofit was established.
Info www.smiles4sickchildren.com
Monetary donations can be made directly via the website, or checks can be made out to “Smiles For Sick Children” and mailed to Brian Billideau, 2114 W. Legends Way, Anthem, AZ. 85086.
Toys can be purchased and dropped off at “Toy Drop Off” locations around town (check online) or can be arranged to be picked up.
Trevor’s Vision
Supporting local homeless with meals, clothing and other necessities, including providing hundreds of
new shoes and socks annually, along with personal hygiene kits, blankets, jackets, sweatshirts, sleeping bags and more. Accepting monetary donations, cooking supplies/equipment, and volunteer time.
Info www.trevorsvision.org
Youth 4 Troops
Making a difference in the lives of military men and women and their families. Providing and assembling care packages (for active service members and assembling plastic mats for homeless veterans are ongoing projects for Youth for Troops. Volunteers are always welcome.
Info www.youthfortroops.org
By Valley Vibe Staff Writers
[email protected]