Contributed article
SAFFORD — The Arizona Community Foundation of the Gila Valley invites the public to the Graham Greenlee Grant Celebration, an annual event honoring local nonprofit organizations, volunteers, and philanthropists.
The event will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 4 p.m. at Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher. Registration is now open at acf.cventevents.com/gggc2025.
During the recent competitive grant cycle, nonprofit organizations serving Graham and Greenlee counties were awarded a total of $47,000 to support projects in education, social services, environment and sustainability, healthcare, and more. Grant awards will be given to these organizations during this year’s event.
In addition to the grantees, the following awards will also be presented:
- Graham County Nonprofit Organization of the Year
- Greenlee County Nonprofit Organization of the Year
- Ed and Angie Sawyer Volunteer of the Year (Graham County)
- Greenlee County Volunteer of the Year
For more information about the event or nomination process, contact Regional Philanthropic Advisor Selena Valencia Salazar at ssalazar@azfoundation.org or call 520-439-0595.
Ed and Angie Sawyer Graham County Volunteer of the Year
- 2017 — John Bonafas
- 2018 — Ruth Powell (posthumous)
- 2019 — Paulette LeBlanc
- 2022 — Chris Gibbs
- 2023 — Linda Lopez
- 2024 — Ted Prina
Greenlee County Volunteer of the Year
- 2017 — Doug Barlow
- 2018 — Catie Gross
- 2019 — Jesus Garcia
- 2022 — Steve Ahmann
- 2023 — Steve Guzzo
Graham County Nonprofit Organization of the Year
- 2017 — Safford Lions Club
- 2018 — Mt. Graham Safe House
- 2019 — Our Neighbor’s Farm and Pantry
- 2022 — Southeastern Arizona Community Unique Services (SEACUS)
- 2023 — Gila Valley Arts Council
- 2024 — Secret Soldiers
Greenlee County Nonprofit Organization of the Year
- 2017 — Duncan Pride Society
- 2023 — Greenlee County Tourism Council
