News Summary
Desert Financial Credit Union has joined forces with the Arizona Cardinals as a founding partner of the Arizona Cardinals Foundation. This collaboration aims to support individuals and families within Arizona’s special needs community, particularly those facing challenges like autism and Down syndrome. The foundation plans to fund initiatives for key nonprofit organizations and improve community outreach by leveraging the strengths of both organizations. This partnership marks an important step towards fostering inclusiveness and assistance for those in need.
Arizona – Desert Financial Credit Union Announces Partnership with Arizona Cardinals Foundation
Desert Financial Credit Union has officially expanded its partnership with the Arizona Cardinals by becoming a founding partner of the newly launched Arizona Cardinals Foundation. This initiative is aimed at supporting Arizona’s special needs community, specifically individuals and families facing challenges related to intellectual and developmental disabilities including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and traumatic brain injuries.
The Arizona Cardinals Foundation replaces the former Cardinals Charities initiative, marking a pivotal shift in how the franchise aims to serve the community. This newly established foundation seeks to create long-term and meaningful changes across Arizona’s communities, reflecting the commitment of both the credit union and the football team to give back responsibly.
According to Jeff Meshey, the President and CEO of Desert Financial Credit Union, collaboration is crucial for delivering effective community support. Desert Financial has also been designated as the official banking partner of the Arizona Cardinals since 2024, highlighting a robust multi-year partnership that centers on fan engagement, financial education, and community outreach.
Foundation Commitment and Funding Partners
The Arizona Cardinals Foundation has committed to financially supporting four cornerstone nonprofit organizations for a three-year duration. These organizations include:
- Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC)
- Barrow Neurological Foundation
- Special Olympics Arizona
- Treasure House
These partnerships will facilitate the implementation of innovative programs that cater specifically to the special needs community. In addition, the foundation anticipates accepting grant applications from other nonprofits serving the same demographic later in the year. Funds generated from the 50/50 raffle held during Cardinals home games will be earmarked to benefit the Arizona Cardinals Foundation, creating a steady stream of financial support for its initiatives.
Leadership and Future Initiatives
Bob Hamer has been appointed as the executive director of the foundation, where he will lead efforts aimed at assisting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The foundation will work collaboratively with its partners to enhance their impact through joint initiatives and programs.
Desert Financial Credit Union’s Legacy
Desert Financial Credit Union has a storied history of community service, boasting over 85 years of commitment to Arizona communities. With more than 475,000 members and nearly $9 billion in assets, the credit union has demonstrated a consistent dedication to giving back, including returning $16 million to members in 2025 through its Member Giveback Bonus.
The partnership between Desert Financial Credit Union and the Arizona Cardinals represents a significant step forward in addressing the needs of Arizona’s special needs community, fostering an environment of support and inclusiveness. For more information about the foundation and ways to contribute, interested parties can visit AZCardinals.com/foundation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- PR Newswire: Desert Financial Partnership with Arizona Cardinals
- Wikipedia: Arizona Cardinals
- Arizona Cardinals: New Foundation for Special Needs
- Google Search: Arizona Cardinals Foundation
- Sports Illustrated: Arizona Cardinals Launch Foundation
- Google Scholar: Arizona Cardinals Foundation
- AZ Family: Introducing Arizona Cardinals Foundation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Special Needs
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