March 2010

Fred Chaffee
President and CEO
Arizona’s Children Association

Dear Supporters:

As I write this, the legislature has just gone back into session, faced with a $3 billion shortfall in the state budget. This is uncharted territory for all of us, and I can't say with any certainty what will happen next with the state budget, and how the cuts will impact the people we serve.   What I can say with confidence is that our partnership with you is more important than ever. 

The state cannot meet the growing needs of its vulnerable children and families.  For nearly 100 years, Arizona's Children Association has put its unmatched expertise to work serving vulnerable populations and preventing further social problems in every county in the state.  Because you know first hand about our work and the people we impact every day, we're appealing to you to help us continue our work and fulfill our mission.

The theme of this year's annual report is "Keep Hope Alive."  It includes information about our "Hope 3 Ways" campaign, making it easy for you to donate, volunteer and join our on line community and continue to learn about our work, and the needs in our state.

If you have ever considered increasing your contribution or participating in a volunteer project for Arizona's Children, now is the time.   During our last fiscal year, many services that Arizona's Children Association had built up over the years to serve our most vulnerable populations were slowly reduced or eliminated.  At the same time, nearly 143,000 Arizonan's lost their jobs.  State support for foster and adoptive families and the children in their care took a significant hit.  More families than ever requested a food box from Golden Gate Community Center.  The need is growing as the state's budget is shrinking.

As we work to "keep hope alive" and ensure that the children and families who come to us in desperate situations get the help and hope they need to move forward to a better life, we appreciate your continued support. Thank you.

Sincerely,

 
Fred Chaffee

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