Semper Fi & America’s Fund Launches 14th Annual Double Down for Veterans Match Campaign with Goal of Raising $15 Million.

For the 14th consecutive year, Semper Fi & America’s Fund (The Fund) is proud to announce the launch of its annual Double Down for Veterans Match Campaign, in partnership with The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation (The Foundation) and PXG (Parsons Xtreme Golf). This year’s campaign aims to raise $15 million to support critically wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and military families.

Since the campaign’s inception in 2012, nearly $250 million has been raised for The Fund’s mission thanks to $108 million in matching gifts from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation and thousands of generous donors who made a lasting impact.

Now through December 31, 2025, every donation made to The Fund will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $7.5 million by The Foundation and PXG.

“Supporting our Nation’s service members, veterans, and military families is truly an honor,” said Karen Guenther, President, CEO, and Founder of Semper Fi & America’s Fund. “We are profoundly thankful to Bob and Renee Parsons for their unwavering commitment. Their extraordinary generosity continues to make a lasting difference for countless individuals in need of critical care and assistance.”

In Fiscal Year 2025 alone, The Fund provided direct financial assistance to nearly 16,000 individuals — a 13% increase over the previous year and double the number served five years ago. Our mission is to ensure that every veteran we serve achieves the highest possible quality of life. Veterans who have received support from The Fund for three or more years are 80% less likely to struggle with substance abuse, 75% less likely to experience housing insecurity, suicidal ideation, and anxiety, and 70% less likely to face incarceration and negative job outcomes.

Since 2004, The Fund has delivered more than $500 million in grants, support, and services. By the end of Fiscal Year 2026, The Fund will have supported 38,000 service members and veterans, and 100,000 military family members, connecting with nearly 600 heroes every day.

“Serving as a U.S. Marine taught me that the mission doesn’t end when you come home,” said Bob Parsons, U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran. “Veterans and their families face ongoing battles — some visible, many hidden. The Fund provides critical support in those moments, helping them rebuild and succeed.”

“Bob and I are honored to continue our partnership with The Fund in support of our Nation’s heroes,” said Renee Parsons, Co-founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation and Chief Marketing Officer of PXG. “We are committed to helping our veterans and military families thrive. The Fund plays a vital role in this mission by providing essential resources, meaningful connections, and lifelong care.”

As the Nation celebrates 250 years of the U.S. Military, Semper Fi & America’s Fund remains steadfast in its commitment: as long as service members step forward to serve, The Fund will stand beside them and their families in times of injury, illness, and need.

Online donations can be made at www.thefund.org/donate.

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About Semper Fi & America’s Fund

Semper Fi & America’s Fund provides urgently needed resources and lifetime support for combat-wounded, critically ill, and injured service members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. The Fund delivers comprehensive programs that ensure service members and their families have the support they need during recovery and throughout their lives.

Thefund.org

About The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation

The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation inspires hope by providing critical funding at critical times to nonprofit organizations striving to make a difference. The Foundation supports efforts that benefit underserved and marginalized populations and causes close to the Parsons’ hearts, including veterans and first responders, youth and education, health and home and the American dream.

tbrpf.org

About PXG (Parsons Xtreme Golf)

Founded by Bob Parsons, PXG is a global golf equipment company dedicated to developing high-performance golf clubs and apparel. PXG is committed to supporting veterans and military families through philanthropic partnerships and initiatives.

PXG.com

Jobs for Arizona’s Graduates Secures $300,000 from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation to Provide Career Readiness Programs to Arizona Students Over Next Three Years.

Jobs for Arizona’s Graduates (JAG), a proven program that helps young people across the state successfully transition from high school to college and careers, is proud to announce it has secured $300,000 in general operating support over the next three years from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation to provide career readiness, mentorship, and job placement programs to high school students across Arizona.

The funding comes at a critical time as many Arizona communities face challenges related to high school dropout rates, unemployment, and a lack of workforce development opportunities for youth. In 2023, only 77% of low-income students graduated from Arizona high schools.

In contrast, JAG’s proven track record includes a 99% graduation rate for participants, with 80% of graduates successfully securing employment or enrolling in post-secondary education.

“We are thrilled to receive this funding because it will allow us to reach more young people across Arizona over the next three years,” said Majorie DeRubeis, President & CEO of Jobs for Arizona’s Graduates. “Every student deserves the opportunity to gain the skills, knowledge, and experience they need to succeed after graduation. This grant will help us make that a reality for students by creating new pathways to post-secondary education and career success.”

Since its inception, JAG has been committed to reducing dropout rates and improving employment outcomes for Arizona’s youth. The program focuses on providing mentoring, life skills training, career exploration, job readiness, leadership skills development, and direct job placement assistance to high school students. Through one-on-one mentorship and community partnerships, JAG equips students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed, whether they pursue higher education, enter the workforce, or start their own businesses. The program aims to reach 1,800 students annually, with long-term goals to increase student engagement, local employment rates, and community involvement.

“JAG’s programs prove that students can make it successfully to graduation with the proper support,” said Renee Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “The valuable mentorship, skills training, and meaningful exposure to employment opportunities that JAG provides gets these kids that much closer to their educational and career dreams.”

According to recent data from the Arizona Department of Education, students in rural and underserved communities often face barriers to education and career development that their peers in urban areas do not. JAG helps bridge these gaps, offering students the support and resources necessary to overcome obstacles and build sustainable futures.

“If we want a strong workforce and a strong state, we must invest in our youth,” said Bob Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “JAG is showing what is possible when you give students the tools to build a future on their own terms. Once a student believes they can succeed, there’s no limit to what they will do.”

One example of JAG’s work is with Gila Bend High School. The program was implemented in 2023 and students gained access to mentorship, career exploration, and hands-on learning experiences that prepared them for post-secondary education and workforce opportunities. The outcomes were incredible. The school received an A grade in just one year. In 2023-24, every Gila Bend JAG senior successfully graduated, 72% of JAG students improved their GPA last year, and 89% of JAG students earned all credits attempted, ensuring they remain on pace to graduate.

“JAG has completely shifted our school’s culture,” said Superintendent Dr. Varner, Gila Bend Unified School District. “Our kids now look you in the eyes, shake your hand properly, and come prepared with resumes. Employers are taking notice. Today, we’re a nationally recognized JAG program, our graduation rate is 100%, and our students are securing careers in high-demand fields across the state. JAG has been a game-changer for us.”

Hushabye Nursery Receives $300,000 from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation to Support Infants Suffering from Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.

Hushabye Nursery is pleased to announce The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has donated $300,000 to support inpatient detox and recovery for infants experiencing Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS).

In the U.S., a baby is born every 15 minutes with NAS because of prenatal opioid exposure, which results in a complex and painful detoxification process in the days following birth. Hushabye Nursery provides a therapeutic environment, short-term medical care and social services for infants suffering from NAS, along with outpatient services and resources for families experiencing opioid use disorder (OUD).

“Hushabye Nursery has a proven model that is working to help babies detox safely and more effectively than the current hospital standard,” said Renee Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “They are also reducing the stigma surrounding substance use while providing a loving environment to keep families intact and help them get well.”

Hushabye Nursery is one of the first organizations in the United States to provide a private, quiet room with dim lighting for babies to receive constant, specialized care as they go through withdrawal. Moms can be with their babies during this process and have access to resources and support services while they are staying at Hushabye Nursery.

“Hushabye Nursery creates a safe place for moms and babies to feel comfortable and supported during one of the toughest times of their lives,” said Bob Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “The counseling, medical care and parenting skills these families are gaining will change the course of their lives forever and give their babies a fighting chance.”

Founded by neonatal nurse practitioners, Hushabye Nursery is the only NAS-focused nursery in the country to integrate health care and social services while prioritizing both keeping infants safe and having families directly involved in their care and recovery. They were recognized as one of 10 organizations across the country for the first-ever Behavioral Health Recovery Innovation Challenge by the Department of Health and Human Services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

“The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation continues to step forward when we need them most,” said Tara Sundem, Hushabye Nursery Executive Director and Founder. “Their donation is so impactful because the funds are unrestricted and we can allocate resources where they are needed most, ensuring that every individual receives the highest level of care.”

$350,000 Grant Powers LGBTQ+ Student Safety Efforts During Mental Health Awareness Month.

Education Action Alliance, a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ students, has received a $350,000 grant from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation to expand training and outreach programs across Arizona. The new funding arrives during Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when student well-being is top of mind. The grant will help Education Action Alliance equip more schools with the tools to build safer, more inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ youth, who disproportionately face discrimination and mental health challenges.

The need for this work remains urgent. Nearly two-thirds of LGBTQ+ students in Arizona report experiencing discrimination at school, often due to exclusionary policies, bullying, or lack of representation. This grant will allow Education Action Alliance to grow its training and outreach efforts–particularly in school communities that have lacked access to affirming resources.

“The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation is helping us lay the groundwork for lasting change, starting at the community level,” said Carol Tappenden, Executive Director of Education Action Alliance. “This funding enables us to broaden our programs, develop locally relevant tools and training materials, and extend our reach to more schools and communities across Arizona. With their continued support, we are empowered to further our mission of advocating for inclusive schools and making a meaningful difference in the lives of Arizona’s LGBTQ+ youth.”

As part of its core programming, Education Action Alliance delivers training sessions that help students and educators understand the real-world impact of identity, bias, and belonging. In a recent session, one student shared: “This presentation expanded my perspective on LGBTQ+ youth and opened my eyes to the different struggles they might face.” Another said, “It helped me think of how experiences can be perceived through the eyes of someone completely different from myself.” These are the kinds of conversations Education Action Alliance fosters–ones that build empathy and create safer, more inclusive learning environments.

“Belonging in our schools should be the rule, not the exception,” said Renee Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “Education Action Alliance is leading the way toward a future where every young person is respected, supported, and feels they belong.”

This announcement coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month, highlighting the strong connection between student well-being and a safe school environment. LGBTQ+ youth face higher risks of anxiety, depression, and suicide–challenges that are intensified by discrimination and lack of support. Research shows that when students feel seen, respected and affirmed, they thrive academically and emotionally. Education Action Alliance remains committed to ensuring all students have access to school environments that support both their mental and physical health.

“No one should be harassed for who they are,” said Bob Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “No student should have to choose between safety or acceptance. Education Action Alliance is helping youth to build confidence and thrive without fear.”

Education Action Alliance’s work also extends beyond the classroom to help transform the entire school community. The organization helps mobilize students, families, and educators to build stronger, more supportive school communities–and to become effective advocates through civic engagement to create the schools they want to attend, work in, and send their children to. From resource fairs to community listening sessions to storytelling workshops, Education Action Alliance equips stakeholders with the tools to engage constructively with school leaders and advocate for policies and practices that meet the needs of diverse LGBTQ+ youth.

This new grant arrives at a pivotal moment, supporting Education Action Alliance’s transition into a fully independent nonprofit after more than two decades of service as the GLSEN Arizona Chapter. With this investment, Education Action Alliance is positioned to deepen its statewide impact, ensuring that every student—regardless of identity, background, or location–has the opportunity to feel safe, supported, and empowered in school.

Earn to Learn Receives $250,000 from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation.

Funds to Help Low-Income Students Obtain College Degrees with Little to No Student Loan Debt

As part of Financial Literacy Month, Earn to Learn, an Arizona nonprofit dedicated to promoting post-secondary educational attainment along with the skills to achieve financial independence, is proud to announce a $250,000 grant from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation.

This grant will strengthen the organization’s capacity to serve an additional 1,350 students, while expanding Earn to Learn’s signature wrap-around program. Enhancements include increasing financial wellness education by providing Financial Counselors for personalized, one-on-one support and refining the current success coach model to better meet the unique needs of students across Arizona.

“Too many college students are buried in debt before they even get a shot at success,” said Bob Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “Earn to Learn is providing a smarter path forward with tools and support students need to graduate with confidence and with little to no debt.”

Earn to Learn is a groundbreaking Arizona-based program that partners with students to provide financial literacy education, financial coaching, and matched-savings scholarships to cover unmet needs in higher education. Since its inception, the program has supported thousands of Arizona students in earning college degrees, with 95 percent graduating debt-free or with minimal debt (less than $10,000).

Eligible students and their families deposit $500 into a savings account each year, then receive an 8-to-1 match through combined university support and other public and philanthropic funding. This results in a total of $4,500 per academic year to assist with tuition, room and board, childcare, and other approved educational expenses.

“When students understand how to manage money, they’re better equipped to make informed decisions in every part of life,” said Renee Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “Earn to Learn’s financial literacy tools, coaching, and incentive to save are a winning combination that prepares young people for a lifetime of success.”

Gabriella, an Earn to Learn alumna, exemplifies the program’s impact. She graduated from the University of Arizona in 2022, having utilized the Earn to Learn program for four years, and is currently employed by Raytheon in Tucson. She participated in the mentoring program with Raytheon during her post-secondary journey and was hired full-time upon graduation. Now she’s paying it forward as a mentor to a student, sharing her experiences and insights.

“As we continue to navigate the financial challenges of higher education, we are proud to stand alongside students, families, and educators in the ongoing effort to promote financial literacy,” said Kate Hoffman, Founder and CEO of Earn to Learn. “Here in Arizona, more than 43 percent of students with student loan debt did not even obtain a college degree. Our goal is to minimize or eliminate those financial burdens. We know that financial literacy is foundational to the success of our future leaders, and we’re deeply appreciative of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation’s support.”

Applications for the 2025-2026 school year are being accepted now through May 1, 2025. Students interested in learning more about Earn to Learn can visit: www.earntolearn.org.

First Place AZ Awarded Multi-Year $600,000 Grant from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation to Advance Housing, Research and Leadership Initiatives.

First Place AZ is proud to announce a transformative $600,000 grant over three years from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation during national Autism Acceptance Month. The generous $200,000 annual commitment will fuel innovative research, housing initiatives and leadership development programs aimed at fostering greater inclusion where people with autism and/or developmental disabilities live, learn, work and benefit from supportive communities.

“This grant is supporting new residents at the First Place–Phoenix apartment property, while fueling a marketplace of options through the First Place Global Leadership Institute. We are committed to developing inclusive communities that open doors for more people living with autism and/or developmental disabilities who too often are underrepresented in data and underestimated in their abilities,” said Denise D. Resnik, First Place AZ founder and president/CEO.

Founded in 2012, First Place AZ is an internationally recognized thought leader in housing innovation and systems change for the autism and disability community. Through its First Place–Phoenix Apartments, Transition Academy and Global Leadership Institute, the organization fosters research, training and partnerships that drive national and international progress in housing, employment, and healthcare solutions.

“Renee and I look for organizations that move the needle,” said Bob Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “First Place AZ is doing more than talking about change—they are building it, one apartment, one leader, and one breakthrough at a time.”

In its first year, the funding will advance:

Supportive Housing Research & Expansion of Accessible Offerings, in collaboration with Arizona State University’s (ASU) College of Health Solutions
National Housing Market Analysis, representing First Place-facilitated studies across eight U.S. markets, providing critical data that informs development and future policies
Building the Next Generation of Leaders, involving ASU student internships

The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has long been a champion for organizations that serve people and communities overlooked or underserved. This investment in First Place AZ underscores the importance of sustainable, innovative solutions in housing and workforce development for individuals with autism and/or developmental disabilities.

“We know it’s challenging to find quality housing and employment opportunities for people with developmental disabilities,” said Renee Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “First Place AZ provides not only housing to address their needs, but programs that promote more productive, connected, and joyful lives.”

The funding also aligns with First Place AZ’s broader mission of fostering a supportive community where people with autism and/or developmental disabilities can thrive. The organization will leverage the grant by advancing practices in Greater Phoenix and sharing findings through the annual First Place Global Symposium that engages leaders from across the U.S. and around the world focused on models and systemic change. Learn more about the Oct. 15-17, 2025, symposium and register here. For more information or to get involved, email [email protected] or visit firstplaceaz.org or firstplaceglobal.org.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Announces Plans for New Gymnasium in South Scottsdale.

The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation Gives $2.5M to Make Dreams Become a Reality

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale (BGCS) is proud to announce that The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation will support the future Steve & Maria Sanghi Branch at Tonalea Middle School, by providing funding for a new gymnasium. This generous contribution is part of the $15 million Revive. Thrive. Succeed. Capital Campaign and will provide critical resources to ensure youth in South Scottsdale have a dedicated space for play, fitness, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles.

“This gift from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation is an incredible investment in the future of our youth,” said Ivan Gilreath, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale. “Physical activity is a crucial part of child development, and this gymnasium will ensure that kids who need us the most in this community have access to a safe and welcoming space.”

The future Bob & Renee Parsons Gymnasium will be a 13,000 sq. ft. stand-alone, shared-use facility supporting both youth and teen Club members as well as Tonalea students and the local community. The facility will offer a state-of-the-art space for recreational activities, sports leagues, and healthy lifestyle programming aimed at promoting physical activity, resiliency, and teamwork among the youth served.

“An important part of a child’s development happens after school hours—when kids have the freedom to explore their own interests,” said Bob Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “Renee and I are proud to help bring a new gym to South Scottsdale where kids and families can stay active, engage in sports and build lifelong memories.”

A longtime supporter of initiatives that improve opportunities for underserved youth, The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation shares BGCS’s commitment to providing kids with the tools they need to succeed in all aspects of life.

“The Bob & Renee Parsons Gymnasium will provide a safe space where youth can build friendships, learn teamwork and sportsmanship, and have fun,” said Marianne Guenther, BGCS Board Member and Capital Campaign Chair. “This incredible gift reinforces our mission to provide a safe, enriching environment for every child who walks through our doors.”

BGCS’s Revive. Thrive. Succeed. Capital Campaign has raised nearly 70 percent of its $15,000,000 goal to revitalize an existing space at Tonalea Middle School, build the new gymnasium, and sustain the new branch’s programs for years to come. This branch will feature a Makerspace Studio, Tech Lab, performing arts studio, art room, games room, and a dedicated teen center, ensuring a broad range of academic, creative, and recreational opportunities for youth.

Construction of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Steve & Maria Sanghi Branch is set to begin in May 2025, with an anticipated opening in August 2026.

“A strong community starts with empowered youth,” said Renee Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “This branch and gymnasium will offer a safe, inclusive space where youth can find mentorship, build relationships, and discover their full potential. We’re honored to support programs that uplift and inspire the next generation.”

For more information about the Revive. Thrive. Succeed. Capital Campaign and how you can contribute, visit www.bgcs.org/thrive.

Sojourner Center Announces $250,000 Gift from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation to Support Domestic Violence Survivors and their Children.

Sojourner Center is proud to announce a $250,000 multi-year general operating grant from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation that will provide safe shelter and supportive services to survivors of abuse and their children. This grant funding will specifically underwrite 2,775 safe nights of rest for survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking over the next two years.

“The demand for our services has increased dramatically over the past few years,” said Julie Peterson, Co-Executive Director of Sojourner Center. “Here in Arizona, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience domestic violence. The numbers are staggering and we’re so grateful for the funding and the opportunity to reach more people in need.”

Sojourner Center serves at least 2,000 survivors each year with a comprehensive range of services, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, pet companion services, a dedicated emergency hotline, and more.

“Survivors of domestic violence come to Sojourner Center in crisis, often lacking options or a safe place to turn,” said Renee Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “Through tailored and compassionate services, Sojourner Center embraces these survivors and their children, giving them hope and the tools to move forward.”

This grant is particularly timely since April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and take action for the most vulnerable among us—our children. In Arizona, a child witnesses domestic violence every 44 minutes, a devastating reality that can have lifelong effects. With over 60 percent of those we serve being children, Sojourner Center and The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation are committed to breaking the cycle of domestic violence by strengthening critical programs that support families in crisis.

“No one should have to live in fear—especially children,” said Bob Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “Sojourner Center provides survivors and their children with the safety, resources, and support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.”

Sojourner Center’s Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing programs provide a secure environment where survivors and their children receive trauma-informed care, including safe housing, meals, case management, lay legal support, and access to Sojourner Center’s Child Development Center. The Child Development Center is an on-site licensed, 5-star Quality First, NECPA-accredited childcare center, offering comprehensive care and early learning opportunities designed specifically to help children from birth to age twelve overcome the adverse effects of trauma.

Children like Jake*, a 5-year-old boy and his mother found Sojourner Center after experiencing years of abuse. Jake enrolled in the Center’s preschool class, and it was immediately clear that his previous exposure to violence taught him that fighting was the best way to survive. His aggression with his peers and staff consumed many of his early days at the Child Development Center. Each day at pick-up, his mother asked, “Is he allowed to come back tomorrow?” as he had been asked to leave multiple childcare centers prior.

Sojourner Center’s trained Child Development Team met with Jake and his mom to create a plan for him to be successful. Jake needed consistency, support, and most importantly, compassion. Day by day, his trust with the world around him grew. His mother was able to use the time he was in childcare to get a job, locate housing, and begin to rebuild their lives.

Sojourner Center is one of the only domestic violence shelters in Maricopa County with an on-site Pet Companion Shelter. Up to half of survivors delay leaving their abuser for fear of what will happen to their pet. Sojourner’s campus is designed to be pet-friendly so pets can stay with their owners. Additionally, they operate a 24/7 Support Hotline where all staff are trained in trauma-informed crisis intervention techniques.

Make-A-Wish® Arizona’s 2025 Wish Ball Raises $3.3 Million and Celebrates 45 Years of Wishes.

Make-A-Wish Arizona is thrilled to announce that the 2025 Make-A-Wish Arizona Wish Ball, presented by Phusion Projects and Valley Toyota Dealers, raised over $3.3 million in a single night. At the event, Bob and Renee Parsons announced they would match the 2025 Fund-A-Wish total, dollar-for-dollar, matching over $1 million dollars.

In honor of Make-A-Wish Arizona’s 45^th anniversary, this year’s Wish Ball featured the theme “Art of Wishes,” celebrating the artistry behind granting wishes and recognizing the remarkable achievements of the organization over the past four decades. The evening began with a special anniversary toast led by Make-A-Wish co-founders, Linda Pauling and Allan Schmidt, setting the stage for a night of inspiration and celebration.

The gala was co-chaired by Chrissy Butz, Keli Nichols, Teri Pierce and returning chair and Make-A-Wish Arizona board member, Dena Zell. This event, dedicated to supporting Make-A-Wish Arizona’s mission of granting wishes for children with critical illnesses, offered 900 guests, including, Paradise Valley Mayor Mark Stanton and Consul General of Mexico Jorge Yescas, the chance to meet wish kids and hear their inspiring stories of hope and joy.

“The generosity and passion of our Wish Ball supporters continue to inspire us year after year,” said Fran Mallace, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Arizona. “As we celebrate 45 years of wish granting, this evening reinforces the power of our community to transform lives. Every dollar raised brings us closer to making more wishes come true for Arizona children facing critical illnesses, proving that hope is truly an art we create together.”

The Wish Ball honored long-time supporters Bob and Renee Parsons with the Lifetime Impact Award which recognizes the indelible mark they have made on the lives of thousands of critically ill children. Their unwavering support, through both personal contributions and the philanthropic efforts of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation, has been the cornerstone of Make-A-Wish Arizona’s success.

“Renee and I are honored to support Make-A-Wish Arizona and the extraordinary impact they create for these brave kids” said Bob Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation and a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam War Veteran. He added, “The Marine Corps could learn many lessons from these wish kids. They are the epitome of courage.”

“Every wish granted is a reminder that hope has the power to heal,” said Renee Parsons, Co-Founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “Make-A-Wish Arizona and the courageous children and families they serve have been dear to our hearts for over a decade. We are incredibly proud to continue supporting their life-changing mission.”

In the past fiscal year, Make-A-Wish Arizona granted a record-breaking 462 wishes, the highest in the founding chapter’s history. This year, the goal is to grant 475 wishes, and thanks to the support of the community, sponsors, and attendees of Wish Ball, we are confident in our ability to surpass this goal and bring joy to even more deserving wish kids.

To learn more about Make-A-Wish Arizona and how to get involved, visit arizona.wish.org.

Inaugural golf tournament raises $1 Million to fund Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab at Barrow Neurological Institute.

Barrow Neurological Foundation hosted an inaugural golf tournament, raising $1 million to establish the new Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab at Barrow Neurological Institute. The Barrow Open, presented by PXG with special support from The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation, took place at the iconic TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. In addition to a competitive round of golf, highlights included a golf and wellness clinic provided by PXG, a “sneak peek” into the new Barrow Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab from Barrow clinicians, a Hole-In-One contest sponsored by Porsche Salt Lake City on the signature 16th Hole, and an awards reception featuring a live auction.

“It was an incredible honor to chair The Barrow Open Committee and lead efforts to raise funds for the new Barrow Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab. Seeing all the players, donors, and sponsors come together to support this cause was truly inspiring,” said Laurie Carson, Barrow Open Committee Chair and Foundation Board Trustee.

The Barrow Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab will be the first of its kind in Arizona, with an initial focus on studying the biometrics of the modern golf swing. Approximately 55 percent of professional golfers and 35 percent of amateur golfers experience sport-related back injuries. However, there is little evidence-based research on how to best treat their injuries and when it will be safe to return to play. Led by neurosurgeon Randall Porter, MD, and physiatrist and interventional spine specialist Scott Kreiner, MD, the Barrow Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab will enable Barrow clinicians to conduct research and develop innovative treatment and science-backed guidelines to help golfers with back pain or injury safely return to their game.

“As a neurosurgeon, almost all my golf patients have the same question after surgery or therapy for their back pain: When can I get back to my game? The Barrow Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab intends to answer that question by studying the biomechanics of the modern golf swing, conducting pre- and post-injury research, and collecting data on golfers before and after spine surgery,” said Dr. Porter. “I am grateful to everyone who supported The Barrow Open for making this possible, especially PXG and The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation as our presenting partner, and Bruce and Sara Ward for their early Core Fore commitment.”

Research in the Barrow Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab will emphasize collaborating with golfers at all levels, using state-of-the-art analytic equipment to evaluate whether the biomechanics of their swing contribute to back pain.

“Innovation in golf isn’t just about the clubs we create; it’s about empowering every golfer to achieve their best performance,” said Bob Parsons, Founder of PXG and The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “At PXG, we are deeply committed to supporting initiatives like the Barrow Sports Biomechanics Spine Lab, where science and sport unite to ensure that every golfer can return to the course stronger than ever.”