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About

We change lives

We’re on a mission to nourish minds and bodies so that neighbors in need experience a brighter future.

Since 1966, we’ve been helping vulnerable populations meet life’s most pressing needs. People struggling with hunger, poverty and homelessness count on us for a lifeline of essential resources. Last year, nearly 15,000 food boxes were distributed at AZCEND providing more than 830,000 meals. Yet food is just the beginning.

 

More than a meal

We help neighbors in need discover what’s possible so that they experience a brighter future than they may have imagined.

  • Safe, emergency shelter gives people experiencing homelessness the stability they need to get back on their feet
  • Rent and utilities assistance keeps people in their homes
  • Early childhood literacy prepares little ones to succeed in Kindergarten and in life
  • Parenting classes equip parents to better support their children
  • Nourishing meals, friendship and activities for Seniors combat loneliness and isolation while promoting independence.

 

Our mission

We nourish minds and bodies so that neighbors in need experience a brighter future.

 

Our vision

Everyone in our community is thriving.

 

Our values

AZCEND is built on five core principles:

Integrity | Exemplifying honesty, trust and reliability.

Compassion | Providing support in an empathetic way.

Dignity | Treating everyone with honor and respect.

Inclusivity | Embracing equity and fairness to provide equal access to all.

Hope | Empowering each other to believe that there is a brighter future ahead.

 

All are welcome

AZCEND believes that all clients, staff and volunteers should be welcomed with an open mind, valuing varying perspectives and backgrounds. AZCEND is an organization that celebrates diversity and all of the paths and lenses that have become our experiences.

AZCEND will serve all with justice, equity, diversity and inclusion and become a better team by embracing openness to change and the ability to work together with the grace and patience needed to grow and understand each other.

 

Did you know?

AZCEND earned a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator designating AZCEND as an official “Give with Confidence” charity.