How Local Nonprofits Are Changing Lives in Carefree, Cave Creek & North Scottsdale

DATE

August 4, 2026

The Growing Need for Local Nonprofit Support

Across the nation—and right here in the Desert Foothills—the demand for charitable services has reached unprecedented levels. Economic uncertainty, rising living costs, and reductions in funding for essential support programs have placed increasing pressure on nonprofits serving our most vulnerable neighbors.

Children facing hunger, seniors living in isolation, adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and families experiencing hardship all depend on organizations that provide housing, food, transportation, education, and community support. As these needs continue to grow, local nonprofits are working harder than ever to ensure no one is left behind.

Communities like Carefree, Cave Creek, and North Scottsdale are experiencing many of the same challenges seen across the country, making local support more important than ever.

Helping Seniors Remain Independent

For many older adults, remaining independent means having access to transportation, companionship, wellness programs, and assistance with everyday needs. Without those resources, seniors living alone face increased risks of falls, poor nutrition, medication challenges, and social isolation.

Organizations like Foothills Caring Corps provide vital services that help seniors and adults with disabilities continue living safely and independently in their own homes. As the number of seniors experiencing isolation continues to rise, the need for these services continues to grow alongside it.

Fighting Food Insecurity in Arizona

Food insecurity remains one of Arizona’s fastest-growing challenges. Today, nearly 1.1 million Arizonans struggle to put food on the table, including 1 in 7 adults and 1 in 5 children.

Locally, Foothills Food Bank continues to meet that growing demand. In 2025 alone, the organization distributed more than 2 million pounds of food, providing nearly 1.7 million meals to individuals and families throughout the Desert Foothills. With food prices remaining high and economic uncertainty continuing, the need for assistance is expected to increase again in 2026.

Creating Hope for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Another growing challenge is supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Across Arizona, more than 34,000 adults with I/DD live with aging caregivers and face an uncertain future as those caregivers become unable to provide lifelong care.

The Scully Learning Center Foundation is addressing this need through its Preserving Families Home initiative, a long-term housing solution designed to provide safety, stability, and independence while keeping families connected. Every dollar raised brings this vision one step closer to becoming a reality.

Four Local Nonprofits. One Community Mission.

Recognizing these growing community needs, four Desert Foothills nonprofits have joined together for one unforgettable evening of fundraising.

Dancing with the Desert Stars will benefit:

Together, these organizations provide housing solutions, food assistance, senior services, educational opportunities, and community programs that improve lives throughout Carefree, Cave Creek, and North Scottsdale.

Join Us for Dancing with the Desert Stars

On Saturday, September 19, 2026, the community is invited to gather for Dancing with the Desert Stars, a black-tie fundraising gala celebrating generosity, community, and hope.

Guests will enjoy:

Local personalities competing on the dance floor
Voting for the People’s Choice Award
Heavy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails
Live music
Line dancing
Silent and live auctions
An unforgettable evening supporting four incredible local nonprofits

Every ticket purchased stays right here in the Desert Foothills, helping neighbors in need while strengthening the community we all call home.

Purchase your tickets today!

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS!

Together, we can make a lasting difference.