Thunderbirds Charities has partnered with Phoenix Children’s Hospital for many years and has donated more than $2 million to the hospital for various projects to enrich the programs and facilities. The most recent gift helped fund this outstanding new Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. We are so proud to see all of the advancements happening at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
Breaking Barriers at Ability 360
We love all that’s going on with our friends over at Ability 360 and watching the persistence, can-do attitude and growth of the kids involved since Thunderbirds Charities first donated money to the organization in 2006. Continue Breaking Barriers Ability 360, the sky is the limit!
Down Syndrome Network Awards the Outstanding Foundation Award to The Thunderbirds
Thunderbirds Charities – the charitable giving arm of The Thunderbirds – was on hand for the iCan Swim summer camp put on by the Down Syndrome Network. The annual summer camp teaches children with developmental or intellectual disabilities basic water safety and swimming techniques so they can enjoy the Valley swim season safely and independently.

“We want all our kids to be aware of the water, know what to do when they’re in the water and be able to enter and exit the water safely,” said Ariel Sansom, program manager for Down Syndrome Network. “It’s also important all children and youth with down syndrome and other disabilities have the opportunity to learn how to swim in the appropriate setting which is provided by iCan Swim Camp and Thunderbird Support.”
Down Syndrome Network awarded the Outstanding Foundation Award to The Thunderbirds for their support of programs like iCan Swim, iCan Bike, Tweens & Teens and Aging Matters – a program designed to encourage artistic expression in older adults.
“Thunderbirds Charities mission statement is to help children and families and improve their quality of life in our communities,” said Andy Markham, Big Chief of The Thunderbirds. “Down Syndrome Network and their partnership with Mobility 360 provide wonderful programs like iCan Bike and iCan Swim. They provide a wonderful service.”
Take a look at the video to see the iCan Swim Summer Camp in action.
2018 Arizona Special Olympics State Games
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]What a great weekend with Special Olympics Arizona and the Arizona Special Olympics State Games. The Thunderbirds are a proud supporter of this great organization and want to congratulate all of the athletes who competed in the 2018 Games! We look forward to this event every year and can’t wait to be back in 2019.[/vc_column_text][mk_gallery images=”25639,25618,25619,25620,25621,25622,25623,25624,25625,25632,25631,25630,25629,25628,25626,25634,25635,25636,25637,25638″ style=”style3″ orderby=”rand”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
2018 WM Phoenix Open – a Look Back
From Monday’s Kadima.Ventures Pro-Am to the final tap-in on Sunday, the 2018 Waste Management Phoenix Open was a huge success full of incredible moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Take a look back on tournament week and soak in the best of The People’s Open.
Ben Silverman Wins Desert Ford Dealers Drive for your Ride Contest
First-year PGA TOUR professional Ben Silverman is riding around in a brand new Ford Expedition after winning the Ford Drive for your Ride contest at the 16th hole during the 2018 Waste Management Phoenix Open. Silverman’s first and second round shots at the iconic par-3 measured a total of 15’ 8” from the cup, good enough to win a new ride for himself and the 100 Club of Arizona.
“As the official vehicle of the WMPO, we were looking for ways to heighten the excitement at 16 while also benefitting a deserving non-profit organization,” said Tim Hovik, president of the Desert Ford Dealers. “We are thrilled that both Ben and the 100 Club of Arizona will drive away in new Ford vehicles.”
Silverman cited the 100 Club of Arizona’s commitment to public safety as the reason he chose to play on behalf of the organization.
“Morgan and I are so excited to win the Expedition,” said Silverman. “It will be a great family car for us.”



