Trinity Donovan to receive the Tracey Washington Spirit Award
AZCEND is proud to honor Trinity Donovan with the 2026 Tracey Washington Spirit Award for her outstanding service to our community.
The award was created in memory of Tracey Washington, who served as AZCEND’s Food Bank Manager for 14 years. Tracey respected people, understood their needs and devoted himself to helping others. His kindness and commitment changed countless lives and inspired his colleagues at AZCEND to carry his spirit forward through this special award.
The Tracey Washington Spirit Award honors people who live out AZCEND’s core values of integrity, compassion, dignity, inclusivity and hope. Each nominee is considered for the difference they make in the community, the time and energy they give as well as their commitment to volunteer service.
Recipients also serve as role models. They treat others with dignity and respect, lead by example and inspire those around them to help build a stronger community.
Past recipients include Frank Narducci, Ernie Serrano, Mayor Kevin Hartke, the Chandler Compadres and Kathy Tilque. Trinity now joins this remarkable group of community leaders whose service brings help and hope to others.
Trinity Donovan
Trinity Donovan is a collaborative leader dedicated to strengthening communities and expanding access to hope and healing. She serves as the inaugural Director of the Gilbert Advocacy Center, a centralized place where survivors and victims of violence can access coordinated services in a safe, compassionate environment. Previously, she served for more than 16 years as CEO of AZCEND.
With 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Trinity has dedicated her career to ensuring people receive support earlier through responsive, effective and sustainable programs. She is recognized for aligning strategy, partnerships and resources to create lasting community impact.
“I am only one; but I am still one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. I will not refuse to do the something I can do.”
Helen Keller
Her commitment to public service includes two terms on the Chandler City Council, where she championed human services, transportation, water management and sustainability. She currently serves on the First Things First East Maricopa Regional Council, Bogle Boosters, Knox Art Masterpiece Board and as Town Liaison to the Gilbert Advocacy Center Foundation Board.
A graduate of Stanford University, Trinity holds a bachelor’s degree in Comparative Studies in Race and Ethnicity and a master’s degree in Sociology. She is passionate about building collaborative systems that help individuals, families and communities thrive. She enjoys traveling with her family, volunteering and is active in her church.
Spirit of AZCEND Gala
Trinity Donovan will receive the Tracey Washington Spirit Award during the 10th Annual Spirit of AZCEND Gala on Friday, October 23, at the Marriott Phoenix-Chandler, 1600 S. Price Road, Chandler, Arizona.
The evening will feature dinner, lively casino games and an uplifting program celebrating the personal transformation in lives that have been changed at AZCEND.
“Guests will see how nutritious food, safe shelter and personal support can help people move from crisis toward stability,” said Shelley Nelson, AZCEND’s Director of Philanthropy. “It will be an inspiring evening that shows what is possible when a community comes together.”
About AZCEND
AZCEND’s mission is to nourish minds and bodies so that neighbors in need experience a brighter future.
Last year, more than one million meals were provided to children, families and senior adults. Food assistance often serves as a starting point linking people with programs and services that help them overcome their crisis and build a more secure future.
“Food may be the first step, but our work goes much further,” said Steve Hewitt, Interim CEO of AZCEND. “We connect people with the resources and support they need to create a path forward and build a brighter future.”
AZCEND provides food boxes, home-delivered meals and lunches every weekday. The organization also offers a lifeline of essential programs and services:
- Safe emergency shelter helps people experiencing homelessness find stability and get back on their feet.
- Rent and utility assistance helps families remain safely in their homes.
- Early childhood literacy programs prepare young children to succeed in kindergarten and beyond.
- Parenting classes give adults tools to support their children’s growth.
- Senior programs provide meals, activities and friendship while reducing loneliness and isolation.
- Heat relief and respite keep people safe, nourished and hydrated during the hottest months of the year.
Since 1966, AZCEND has brought practical help and lasting hope to neighbors facing hunger, poverty and homelessness. By combining food and shelter with opportunities to learn, grow and move forward, AZCEND helps people build a stronger foundation for the future.