May 2024 Newsletter

Before his accident, James had been an up and coming Promotions Manager for restaurants and clubs across Scottsdale. He had a good career, a loyal group of friends, and James felt that his future was bright. He had no idea that all of this would change in just a single moment.

“I spent nearly a year in the hospital, and at that time I was just focused on being able to walk again. I wanted to regain the use of my hands. By the time I got out, I realized what a challenge this was going to be for me. I had to pay enormous medical bills, I had to find a place to live, I had to find someone willing to give me a job.”

James wanted to get his life back to normal, but it wouldn’t be easy. Despite over a year of physical therapy, he had almost no use of the right side of his body and lived with chronic pain. His friends had slowly drifted away and moved on with their lives. Times got dark.

“I felt more alone than I ever had. The worst part was that I just couldn’t find any work, because of my injuries I just couldn’t find anything. So eventually I applied for disability benefits, but it didn’t come through. I ended up spending what little savings I had to keep a roof over my head, and eventually I was going to be homeless.”

This is when James found A New Leaf’s East Valley Men’s Center. Within 24 hours, James was admitted to the shelter and assigned a case manager to help him apply for disability. Not only did he find services that could help him, James also found a meaningful opportunity to connect with other people for the first time in a long time.

“I feel like this shelter and the people here breathed life back into me. It’s giving me a little bit of time to stop, recalculate, and figure out the best way to move forward in my life. The biggest thing is that I got a new hearing on my application for disability, which will be in a few weeks.”

While he waits for a decision on his case, James spends his days reading and playing chess. He tries to keep his spirits up, and hopes that a brighter future is just around the corner. More than anything, he is thankful for the support he has found at A New Leaf.

“Without this place, I don’t know what I would have done. I am just so thankful that our community provides a place for someone who is down on his luck. Please know that the shelter you’ve given me has changed my life. Thank you.”

A New Leaf recently celebrated all of our volunteers and interns for volunteer appreciation week! Everything that happens at A New Leaf is due to the support of our volunteers behind the scenes. They are the backbone of all of our programs, and we are so grateful for all that they do.

Over the past year, they spent 36,714 hours volunteering as individuals and 9,517 hours volunteering as part of groups. With the support of 237 individual volunteers, 78 interns, and 155 volunteer groups, A New Leaf has been able to provide shelter and safety to families and individuals in need.

If you are interested in joining A New Leaf’s wonderful volunteer group, you can get involved today! A New Leaf is looking for Shelter Support Volunteers at four locations: East Valley Men’s Center (EVMC), West Valley Housing Assistance Center (WVHAC), Faith House (FH), and the Community Alliance Against Family Abuse (CAAFA). As a Shelter Support Volunteer, you will play a vital role in helping those who seek shelter, food, and support. Your contributions will make a significant difference in the lives of so many families.

• Helping with food donation pick-ups and meal preparations.
• Sorting and organizing donations, including food, clothes, and toys.
• Providing directions and essential information to shelter visitors.
• Assisting with event preparations and clean-ups.
• Keeping our facilities clean, sanitized, and organized.
• Completing assigned tasks from the shift list, based on location.
• Providing valuable support to our administrative team by assisting with tasks like copying, scanning, answering phones, and greeting visitors.

Three amazing students, Elena, Nicole, and Ileana, from Red Mountain High School just made a significant difference in the community by donating much-needed school supplies to children experiencing homelessness. These school supplies are going to ensure that children in all of A New Leaf’s shelters can continue to get a good education, without having to worry about the financial burden that comes with schooling.

Education holds the power to transform lives, especially for children facing the challenges of homelessness. The school supplies donated by these students are going to unlock new opportunities, encourage ongoing education, and inspire dreams. Children in A New Leaf’s shelters can engage more fully in their studies, and get the education they deserve.

Thank you, Elena, Nicole, and Ileana, for your tremendous donation. Your efforts make sure that every child in our care has the chance to learn, succeed, and build a brighter future. You are truly making a difference, and A New Leaf is so immensely proud to have such compassionate young individuals willing to give to their community in need.

You can help those experiencing homelessness this year, just like Elena, Nicole, and Ileana. Our donation center is still looking for: 

Did you know that donating to A New Leaf doesn’t have to mean writing a check or using your credit card? I invite you to view the short video above to learn about some smarter ways to support your passion for helping those experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, and other heartbreaking challenges:

Your contributions play a vital role in our mission to support those experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, or other heart breaking challenges. Your support helps provide shelter, food, and essential services to those experiencing this crisis. Eviction rates continue to rise, and these families and individuals need your help. 

Please consider making a non-cash donation so you are able to help those in need as soon as possible. You already do so much to help, and A New Leaf wants to make sure that you get something in return for your kindness to all of your neighbors who need it most.

A New Leaf wants to recognize Desert Financial Credit Union, a dedicated partner that supports so many families in need across the Valley. Desert Financial believes in education for all, and since its inception 80 years ago, has vowed to help community members get the education they deserve.

With their focus on education, Desert Financial supports Phoenix Day Early Childhood Education Program with both financial resources and employee volunteer time. Every year, Desert Financial employees visit the classroom to read stories to young students, creating joyful moments that the children cherish as they continue to grow.

Desert Financial has provided more than $150,000 in grants, event support, in-kind donations, and employee giving over the years. Their generous contributions have changed lives across Arizona, and they continue to help A New Leaf extend vital services to those who need it the most.

Jack Biggs, Desert Financials’ Executive Vice President, serves on A New Leaf’s Board of Directors, and is committed to making sure no child is left without an education. Jack’s expertise in financial and administrative matters is invaluable as A New Leaf continues to find more ways to provide services to thousands of people each year. Jack’s guidance ensures A New Leaf can always meet the changing needs of those we serve.

Thank you, Desert Financial, for your incredible support, dedication, and partnership. Your commitment to education, community, and service is truly inspiring.

A New Leaf is excited to announce that plans are underway for Camaraderie 2025! This gala is a celebration of community and an amazing way to help thousands of people that experience homelessness, domestic violence, and so many other life challenges. Details on the venue and date will be revealed soon, so stay tuned for an update that promises a night of meaningful engagement and support.

2024’s “A Night in Positano” Camaraderie Gala was an amazing event, raising over $850,000 for families in need! Your participation and contributions during this event make a real difference. Keep an eye on your inbox, and prepare to join A New Leaf for an unforgettable evening dedicated to helping families, and changing lives.