Desert Financial Credit Union, 2026 Community Champion of Transformation
Phoenix, AZ | September, 30, 2026
As the fall season arrives in the Valley, our community gathers for one of our meaningful traditions: pausing to honor the partners who make lasting transformation possible. Each autumn brings a renewed sense of gratitude for the people and organizations who walk alongside our youth, helping turn belief into opportunity.
This year, we are pleased to announce Desert Financial Credit Union as our 2026 Community Champion of Transformation. We will formally celebrate their support during our annual Champions of Transformation gathering on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at The Adobe Grille at the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club in Phoenix.
A Decade of Purpose-Driven Partnership
For more than ten years, Desert Financial Credit Union has been a steady supporter of New Pathways for Youth. What began as a shared vision for our community has grown into a multi-faceted partnership totaling more than $325,000 in collective support. A significant portion of this, over $200,000, comes straight from team members through the Sharing & Caring Giving Campaign, choosing to contribute voluntary payroll gifts year after year. Combined with executive leadership and strategic guidance on our Board of Directors, their support reflects the kind of community investment that helps create lasting change.
“We are grateful to Desert Financial Credit Union, not only for their ongoing generosity, but because among the many important causes they could support, their team continues to choose New Pathways for Youth. That choice means so much to us and strengthens our commitment to walking alongside young people as they build lives of stability, purpose, and joy.”
— Karen Johnson, President & CEO, New Pathways for Youth
Giving from the Heart
Community impact goes far beyond financial generosity—it lives in the moments when people show up with care and a willingness to help. Time and again, Desert Financial’s team members have stepped forward to be present in our young people’s lives in personal ways.
Whether preparing backpacks filled with essential supplies for back-to-school season, bringing warmth to holiday family drives, or leading financial literacy workshops that help youth budget and plan for their futures, their team consistently leads with care. By sharing their time, knowledge, and support, Desert Financial demonstrates that investing in youth means investing in their whole journey.
In Good Company: A Tradition of Corporate Leadership
The Community Champion of Transformation Award honors organizations whose ongoing commitment reflects civic leadership across Phoenix. Desert Financial Credit Union joins a respected group of past honorees:
- 2025: Trout Camp/The 48s
- 2024: DPR Construction
- 2023: U.S. Bank (Inaugural Corporate Champion)
Together, these leaders reflect the power of sustained community investment and what becomes possible when organizations support local youth.
Join Us to Celebrate on October 15, 2026
Champions of Transformation is an uplifting evening dedicated to the shared belief that every young person deserves a community in their corner.
- Date: Thursday, October 15, 2026
- Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Location: The Adobe Grille at the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club (Phoenix, AZ)
- Evening Highlights: Inspiring stories of youth resilience and achievement, silent and live auctions, a live giving opportunity, and the presentation of the 2026 Champion of Transformation awards.
Every gift raised directly supports our evidence-based, 1-on-1 mentoring program, comprehensive personal development curriculum, and essential family resource navigation.
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