THUNDERBIRDS CHARITIES $100,000 GRANT FUELS ICAN’S MISSION TO SUPPORT YOUTH AND THEIR FAMILIES

February 12, 2025

CHANDLER, AZ (February 12, 2025) – ICAN: Positive Programs for Youth in Chandler recently received a $100,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities.

Generous support from Thunderbirds Charities will help provide critical out-of-school programming to underserved youth in Chandler and Mesa. With over 493,000 youth in Arizona lacking access to afterschool care, ICAN addresses this urgent need by offering free, year-round programming—the only program of its kind in the state.

Without access to safe, structured programs, youth are at greater risk of academic struggles, risky behaviors, and limited opportunities for personal development. ICAN bridges this gap by creating a supportive space where youth can thrive.

ICAN’s comprehensive programming focuses on life skills development, educational enrichment, and workforce readiness. Youth participate in activities designed to improve literacy, math, and STEAM skills while fostering personal growth. They also benefit from career exploration, enrichment clubs, recreation, homework help, and nutritious meals/snacks.

The impact of ICAN’s work is transformative. By providing a secure environment during out-of-school hours, ICAN improves youth safety and ensures they are supported in their academic journeys, helping to close the achievement gap for low-income youth. Additionally, workforce development and career exploration activities fuel students’ hopes and aspirations for the future, while the provision of no-cost, high-quality out-of-school time programming helps improve families’ financial sustainability.

This partnership with Thunderbirds Charities ensures ICAN can continue to build brighter futures, empower youth to reach their potential and create lasting impact in the community.

ABOUT ICAN

ICAN is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, high-quality out-of-school time programming for underserved youth in the East Valley of Arizona. Since its founding in 1991, ICAN has remained dedicated to its mission: to provide access to out-of-school time opportunities that empower all youth and their families to pursue what is most meaningful to them. ICAN’s comprehensive program addresses critical needs by fostering life skills development, educational enrichment, and workforce readiness. Our nationally recognized curriculum supports our youth through activities focused on STEAM, English Language Arts, Math, career exploration, recreation, and healthy meals and snacks—all at no cost to families. Our free, year-round out-of-school time program improves youth safety, closes the achievement gap, supports workforce development, and enhances families’ financial sustainability. With a focus on creating brighter futures, ICAN inspires youth to explore their potential and build the skills needed for success in school, work, and life.

Discover more about ICAN’s transformative impact and how you can help support our mission by calling (480) 821-4207, visiting www.icanaz.org, or connecting with us on social media.