Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust

A wonderful update about Lions Camp Tatiyee's work to welcome more campers for enriching, life-changing experiences. We’re honored to be part of their journey and celebrate their impact!

We’re proud to support the rollout of Arizona’s vision screening law, ensuring over 500,000 kids are screened this year for healthy vision and learning success. Thanks to Eyes On Learning and our philanthropic partners, schools now have free kits, training, and innovative tools to identify and address vision issues early. https://lnkd.in/g8WpV2GP

A coffee shop that turned into a half-million-dollar café and catering company? Yes, please! ☕️ Helpings Café at UMOM New Day Centers, a social enterprise by UMOM New Day Centers, shows nonprofit leaders how to turn a solid business model into mission-driven success. https://lnkd.in/g3qanTTp

Piper Trust recently announced its 2024 Class of Piper Fellows. As these nonprofit leaders begin a year of renewal and growth, a 2023 Piper Fellow, Shelby Pedersen, MPA, CFRE, the CEO of ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth, shares how this transformative opportunity enhanced her leadership skills. https://lnkd.in/gwvR4nZH

PIPER FELLOWS SPOTLIGHT: Leading the Down Syndrome Network Arizona, Jennifer O'Connell is dedicated to empowering individuals and families statewide. Her Fellowship will explore strategies to strengthen inclusion and advocacy efforts. “Being awarded a Piper Fellowship is both an honor and a transformative opportunity. It marks a pivotal step in expanding DSNetwork’s impact by strengthening my leadership and fostering greater collaborations while celebrating the unique gifts individuals with Down syndrome bring to the world,” she said. Learn about O’Connell's plans, and the rest of the distinguished 2024 cohort: https://lnkd.in/gzxG89dt

PIPER FELLOWS SPOTLIGHT: At Sonoran University of Health Sciences, Tracy Lindbergh, CNP is shaping the future of health education and patient care. Her Fellowship will focus on advancing integrative health programs and leadership development. “I know the power of the Fellowship is amplified by learning from, and contributing to, the cohort of Fellows who join me on this journey and the Fellows who have come before us. I am honored and humbled to join this group of dedicated Arizona nonprofit leaders for what will be a transformative experience,” she said. Learn about Lindbergh's plans, and the rest of the distinguished 2024 cohort: https://lnkd.in/gzxG89dt

PIPER FELLOWS SPOTLIGHT: As president and CEO of House of Refuge (Mesa, AZ), Kayla Kolar is a steadfast advocate for families in transition. Her Fellowship will focus on innovative approaches to housing solutions and community support. “I am deeply honored and grateful to be selected as a 2024 Piper Fellow. This opportunity for both personal and professional development brings a responsibility to apply what I learn as I strive to become the best version of myself. It is my commitment to give back, not only to House of Refuge and the families we serve, but also to the broader community, as we continue addressing the pressing challenges of homelessness and affordable housing,” she said. Learn about Kolar's plans, and the rest of the distinguished 2024 cohort: https://lnkd.in/gzxG89dt

PIPER FELLOWS SPOTLIGHT: As executive director of Theater Works in Peoria, Chris Hamby is igniting creativity in the performing arts. His Fellowship will explore ways to expand accessibility and engagement in the arts across the community. “This Fellowship will allow me to connect with leaders who are pushing the boundaries of arts engagement and return with fresh insights that empower TheaterWorks to create even greater impact,” he said. Learn about Hamby's plans, and the rest of the distinguished 2024 cohort: https://lnkd.in/giqrReAX

PIPER FELLOWS SPOTLIGHT: Leading the Arizona Educational Foundation, Kim Graham is on a mission to uplift schools statewide. Her Fellowship will focus on fostering impactful educational programs and advancing leadership in education. “Becoming a Piper Fellow is not about me—I see it as a collective investment in our entire organization. This journey will yield lessons, experiences, and growth opportunities that will impact how we carry out our mission,” she said. Learn about Graham's plans, and the rest of the distinguished 2024 cohort: https://lnkd.in/giqrReAX

PIPER FELLOWS SPOTLIGHT: As general manager of Childsplay, Inc., Ellen Conn is helping bring the magic of theater to children and families across the Valley. Her Fellowship will explore innovative ways to enhance arts education and access for the next generation. “I am deeply honored to be chosen as a Piper Fellow and thrilled by this extraordinary opportunity. Learning to implement design thinking in leadership strategies with some of the most prestigious institutions in our country is an unparalleled gift.” Learn about Conn's plans, and the rest of the distinguished 2024 cohort: https://lnkd.in/giqrReAX