OPINION — Arizona ranks near the bottom nationwide when it comes to charitable giving, according to recent national studies — a troubling distinction at a time when demand for nonprofit services across the state continues to rise.

But Arizona Gives Day, returning April 7, offers Arizonans a clear opportunity to reverse that trend and demonstrate a stronger culture of generosity statewide.

Powered by AZ Impact for Good, Arizona Gives Day is anchored this year by a significantly enhanced AZGives.org platform that supports nonprofits not just on a single day, but year-round.  

Recent research highlighted by local and national media shows Arizona lagging behind most states in charitable giving, even as nonprofits face increased pressure from inflation, housing instability, food insecurity and reductions in public assistance programs. The gap between community needs and available resources continues to widen — and philanthropy plays a critical role in closing it.

 “Arizona Gives Day is about more than one date on the calendar,” said Michael Morefield, Director of Marketing and Communications for AZ Impact for Good. “It’s a chance for Arizonans to show who we are — and who we want to be — by supporting the nonprofits that keep our communities strong.”

The upgraded AZGives.org platform makes it easier than ever for nonprofits to raise funds and connect with supporters. Features include peer-to-peer fundraising tools, campaign management, and mobile-friendly donation pages that can be embedded directly into an organization’s website. For many nonprofits, the platform serves as a robust primary donation portal without the cost or complexity of building one independently.

For donors, AZGives.org offers new tools to discover causes and organizations aligned with their values. A “Browse” feature allows users to search nonprofits by mission, county, population served and tax-credit eligibility — including Arizona Charitable, Foster Care and Public School Tax Credits. A new “Opportunities” section also highlights volunteer roles and events, making it easier to engage beyond financial giving.

Additional enhancements include improved matching-gift tools that notify donors when match goals are reached and celebrate milestones in real time. During Giving Tuesday last November alone, nonprofits using the platform raised more than $139,000.

Nonprofit registration is open through April 5, with early registrants able to immediately begin fundraising and engaging donors. Approval is fast, allowing organizations to start using the platform right away.

Donors can give now via the website or during the early giving window opening March 17, leading up to Arizona Gives Day on April 7. Contributions made through AZGives.org are tax deductible and may qualify for Arizona tax credits.

Businesses can participate through sponsorships, group giving and partnership opportunities. For more information, email azgives@azimpactforgood.org.

AZ Impact for Good is a statewide resource and advocate for Arizona’s nonprofit and philanthropy communities. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.