Helping Hands for Single Moms announced on Apr. 8 that it will celebrate its 500th single mom college graduate during the upcoming Celebrate 500 event, which will also recognize key community partners who have supported the organization’s mission.
The milestone marks a significant achievement in supporting low-income single mothers through education, mentorship, and financial assistance. The organization said reaching this number of graduates demonstrates not only individual success but also broader economic and social benefits for families and communities across Arizona.
The event will honor early supporters such as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Valley of the Sun United Way, Arizona Community Foundation, Phoenix Suns / Phoenix Mercury Foundation, 12 News Arizona, and former NBA veteran Eddie Johnson. Paul Penzone, Vice President and Chief Community Relations Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona said: “We’re proud to support Helping Hands for Single Moms and the meaningful impact they make for families across Arizona. Over the past 17 years, we’ve seen how that support strengthens mothers, supports children, and lifts the communities they serve.”
Anna Maria Chávez, President and CEO of the Arizona Community Foundation said: “Helping Hands for Single Moms is transforming lives across Maricopa County by empowering women to pursue education and build lasting family legacies. The Arizona Community Foundation is honored to stand alongside this remarkable organization, and we are grateful to our donors whose generosity is strengthening its future through the Helping Hands for Single Moms Endowment Fund. Celebrating the 500th graduate reminds us of what becomes possible when community and philanthropy unite to create opportunity.”
Carla Vargas Jasa, President and CEO of Valley of the Sun United Way added: “Supporting Helping Hands for Single Moms is deeply meaningful to us at Valley of the Sun United Way. We see firsthand how empowering single mothers through education and career pathways creates lasting change—not just for their families, but for our entire community. Their mission reflects our shared belief that every family deserves the opportunity to build a stable, healthy future. We’re honored to stand alongside them in this important work.”
Attendees at Celebrate 500 will hear stories from graduates as well as view a visual presentation about Helping Hands’ journey so far.
In related efforts promoting community prosperity in Scottsdale region business development initiatives are led by organizations such as the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce, which advances inclusive business environments through advocacy at city, county and state levels; offers resources like networking opportunities; engages collaboratively with groups such as East Valley Chamber Alliance; all according to the official website.
