Champions of Transformation: Honoring Legacy, Mentorship, and Community Impact at New Pathways for Youth
Phoenix, AZ — October 15, 2025
New Pathways for Youth (NPFY) hosted its annual Champions of Transformation celebration at On Jackson, uniting more than 200 supporters, mentors, and community leaders for an evening that reflected the heart of NPFY’s mission—to guide youth toward lives filled with joy, purpose, and possibility.
The event opened with remarks from Board Chair Joshua Shade and Vice Chair Adaliz Gimenez, who welcomed guests and paid tribute to the late Chris Yakscoe, a cherished NPFY board member remembered for his compassion, generosity, and enduring commitment to youth.
One of the night’s most poignant moments came when Braydon Dennis, President of The Saguaros Foundation, shared words in memory of Chris, honoring his legacy of service and the positive mark he left on the NPFY community.
That legacy continues through the Chris Yakscoe Enrichment Fund, introduced by Board Member Julie Johnson and represented on stage by Mark Garcia, NPFY’s Director of Curriculum & Training, and Pedro Portillo, the inaugural scholarship recipient. Pedro, who joined NPFY at just eight years old through its early after-school programs, shared how mentorship and opportunity have shaped his path. Today, as a young adult, Pedro is halfway through earning his HVAC technician certification—thanks in part to the scholarship created in Chris’s memory.
The program also celebrated this year’s honorees: Trout Camp, recipient of the Community Champion Award, and Ron and Robin Hilgart, who received the Wendell Cook Champions of Transformation Award for their years of dedicated service and leadership.
Auctioneer Cassie Patris-Browne led a spirited live auction and paddle raise, including a $25,000 matching-gift challenge that helped NPFY exceed its fundraising goal for the evening.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Karen Johnson, NPFY CEO, expressed gratitude for the community’s support:
“Every story shared tonight—every act of generosity—reminds us that transformation doesn’t happen alone. It takes all of us believing in what’s possible for our youth.”
As guests concluded the night under a sky full of stars, they left inspired by the stories of transformation, legacy, and the power of mentorship that define New Pathways for Youth.
See the full photo album from the event in our Facebook Page here, or watch the highlights video to relive this unforgettable evening of impact and inspiration.