April weather can be hit or miss in most parts of the country. My aunt, who moved to Oregon last fall, just sent a photo of the sun and blue sky—something she hasn’t seen in months. But here in Phoenix, we can make plans to run, walk, golf, watch a softball game, or stroll outdoor art exhibits pretty much any time in April and be fairly confident the weather will cooperate.
This is great news for the Valley’s worthy causes. No contingent plans to quickly move to a bowling alley need be made. The weather is not the only element making Phoenix a particularly philanthropic city. We are one of only 13 cities with teams from four major sports: Our Arizona Diamondbacks play in the National League division of Major League Baseball. From the National Hockey League, we enjoy watching the Arizona Coyotes. In the fall, our Arizona Cardinals compete in the National Football League and the Phoenix Suns participate in the National Basketball Association.
Over the span of less than one week this April, the Phoenix area will host six major fundraising events for worthy causes. That we live in a city that not only provides a rich sports environment, but also one that is dedicated to making the world a little bit better, is something of which to be genuinely grateful.
Whether you live in or around the Metropolitan Phoenix area or are coming here to enjoy the amazing weather or participate in one of these, or the many other, worthy and fun events, enjoy yourself and stay safe.
Pat’s Run
April 22, 2017
Benefitting Tillman Military Scholars program
Pattillmanfoundation.org/pats-run/
Now in its thirteenth year, more than 20,000 people come out to honor the memory of former ASU and NFL football player, Pat Tillman by participating in the 4.2-mile race that is the signature fundraising event for the Pat Tillman foundation, which provides academic scholarships for military veterans and their spouses.
Larry Fitzgerald Double Play Celebrity Softball Game
April 22, 2017
Benefitting Fitzgerald’s First Down Fund, which assists children and families throughout the country
Larryfitzgerald.com/helpingpeople/firstdownfund/
Held outdoors at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale, the 7th annual Larry Fitzgerald Double Play Celebrity Softball Game and VIP After-Party takes place in the evening and is sure to be a fun-filled opportunity to meet pro athletes and support a good cause. The Larry Fitzgerald First Down Fund was established by Larry Fitzgerald Jr. to help kids and their families by funding positive activities for kids during the summer and throughout the year, supporting kids and families in crisis, and supporting health-related organizations that work with families. The city of Phoenix and state of Arizona is fortunate to have Larry represent them on and off the field.
“Art for Aunt Rita’s”
April 22, 2017
Benefitting Aunt Rita’s Foundation, which advocates for HIV education and awareness and raises funds on behalf of 16 Valley HIV/AIDS service organizations.
Auntritas.org
Art for Aunt Rita’s celebrates the 25 participating artists and art galleries in the renowned Scottsdale Gallery District. The fundraiser is the creation of Jacque Keller of Quantum Art, Inc., in the Marshall Square galleries.
Aunt Rita’s has come a long way since their bake sale days and has introduced fundraising events that have helped provide more than $1.5 million to 16 local HIV/AIDS Service Agencies since 2005.
TOCA Foundation Golf Tournament
April 27, 2017
Benefiting Phoenix Public Schools
Tocamd.com/home/tocafoundation/
The Orthopedic Clinic Association is sponsoring its first Annual Charity Golf Classic to help children in the Phoenix Metropolitan area. Held at the ASU Karsten Golf Course in Tempe, the event will include a raffle, silent auction and an awards luncheon. The TOCA Foundation’s mission is to improve the community in the areas of math, science, and medical research. TOCA started their foundation with the belief that the Phoenix Public Schools need further funding in the area of math and science to improve our community’s educational outcomes and to help nurture future leaders in these areas.
Autism Breakfast
April 28, 2017
Benefitting Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC)
Autismcenter.org/2017-community-breakfast
Taking place at the historic Arizona Biltmore, this year’s Annual Community Breakfast will celebrate 20 years of serving the Phoenix community. Expected to be at capacity with over 2,000 guests, this event will likely be a celebration of all of the generosity and support SARRC has seen from the Phoenix community.
Proceeds raised during the Annual Community Breakfast support the innovative research, programs, and services that help SARRC advance research and provide a lifetime of support for individuals with autism and their families.
JDRF Charity Walk & Run
April 29, 2017
Benefiting JDRF Type 1 Diabetes research
www.jdrf.org/WalkToCure
Each year, JDRF One Walk brings together more than 900,000 people across the country to change the future for everyone living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). This fun, family–friendly event gives people with T1D—and their friends, family, and co–workers—the opportunity to raise money for life-changing T1D research.
The Phoenix event, a 5K walk that begins at 9:00 a.m., will take place at Sloan Park.
If you are in need of transportation while in the Phoenix area:
For large groups, looking to save on parking and gas by riding together, consider renting a large SUV. PHOENIX DISCOUNT Van & SUV Rental is running a special with the base rate starting at $389 a week, not including fees and local taxes. If you are coming into town and just need a basic car to get you to and from your hotel to one of the events, consider Phoenix Car Rental. They are offering a low, base rate of $129 per week, plus fees and local taxes. By renting off-airport, you avoid paying the airport concession fees. Don’t have a credit card? Not a problem. Phoenix Car Rental and PHOENIX DISCOUNT Van & SUV Rental do not require a credit card or even a Debit Card to rent from them. They accept cash as the form of payment and for a deposit.
