Celebrating 60 years of AZCEND

For 60 years, neighbors across Chandler, Gilbert and surrounding East Valley communities have turned to AZCEND for a lifeline of food, safety, shelter and support delivered with dignity, compassion and hope.

This 60th Anniversary year is an exciting time to celebrate the impact you’ve made possible and build the next 60 years together.

A milestone powered by you

Since 1966, AZCEND has been a trusted partner to thousands of people facing hunger, poverty and homelessness. We’re here every day bringing practical help and enduring hope to nourish minds and bodies so that neighbors in need experience a brighter future.

This anniversary year celebrates

Resilience – the strength of neighbors who keep going, even in hard times

Community – volunteers, donors, partners and sponsors who show up with open hands and open hearts

Impact – real help that meets essential needs today and creates brighter futures for tomorrow

Thanks to you, help and hope are always within reach.

What you make possible

Every day, the team at AZCEND meets neighbors where they are and walks alongside them on a path toward stability and self-sufficiency. Lives are changed as our guests rise above challenges, circumstances and crises.

Food for today

Nourishing food boxes, home-delivered meals and weekday lunches ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.

Stability at home

Assistance with rent and utilities keeps families together in their homes.

Shelter

Safe shelter, meals and showers along with personal, one-on-one coaching and caring case management bring stability for neighbors experiencing homelessness so that they can take the next step forward.

Heat relief and respite

During Arizona’s hottest months, heat relief and respite keep neighbors safe, nourished and hydrated.

Early learning and literacy

Early childhood learning prepares little ones to succeed in kindergarten and beyond by building a solid foundation of literacy, social-emotional development and confidence that lasts.

Senior connection and well-being

Activities, friendship and support help seniors combat loneliness and isolation so they can age with dignity.

Meal delivery and wellness checks for seniors who are homebound ensure that they are safe and thriving in their homes while bringing peace of mind to family and friends.

60th Anniversary focus

Celebrate the past. Strengthen today. Build the next 60 years.

Throughout 2026, you’ll see stories of transformation, moments of community and milestones that reflect the depth of AZCEND’s impact. You’ll be invited to invest in what comes next so that essential services remain strong and responsive as needs change.

Become a sustaining partner

Monthly giving is one of the most powerful ways to help neighbors because it’s consistent, reliable and ready when crisis hits.

Choose the level that’s right for you and know that every monthly gift matters. Steady support creates lasting change and ensures that the next 60 years are as impactful as the first.

Did you know?

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