The Community Foundation for Southern Arizona’s (CFSA) 2025-2027 African American Legacy Fund (AALF) Grants have awarded $50,000 to 5 exceptional nonprofits in the region. They are as follows:
• Blue Lotus Artist’s Collective
• Community Investment Corporation (BIPOC Loan Fund)
• Dynamic Breast Cancer Care
• Sierra Vista Dream Center
• The Multivrs Is Illuminated
AALF grants are designed to provide unrestricted operating support to provide flexible working capital and maximize the impact of nonprofits’ missions. This fund provides grants that operate in two-year renewal cycles.
“Investing in African American-led and African American-serving nonprofits through the African American Legacy Fund is not just about funding programs; it’s about affirming leadership, building trust, and resourcing solutions that come directly from the community,” said Jeaiza Quiñones, Senior Director for Community Impact at CFSA. “These grants help create space for sustainable impact and celebrate the powerful legacy of Black excellence and resilience in Southern Arizona.”
Founded in 2013 by esteemed educator, philanthropist, and civic leader Dr. Anna Jolivet, Ph.D., the African American Legacy Fund works to improve the quality of life for African Americans in Southern Arizona by promoting philanthropy and strengthening the community through collaboration.
Together, we are building a more equitable and vibrant region by supporting innovative nonprofit programs, investing in Black and African American leadership, and championing Black-led organizations.
Receiving this grant is a profound honor and comes at a pivotal moment for our work. It means that AALF not only sees us—but they believe in us. Their support strengthens our ability to grow the BIPOC Loan Fund, expanding access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs. This grant directly empowers more BIPOC-owned businesses in Southern Arizona to receive critical funding that fuels their growth and sustainability. Operated by a dedicated committee of volunteers, our fund exists because of generous partners like AALF. Each grant extends our reach, allowing us to serve more business owners, uplift our community, and create long-term economic impact. We are deeply grateful.
— Keneshia Raymond, Director, BIPOC Loan Fund (Community Investment Corporation)
This grant is a huge blessing! This type of funding is particularly valuable in rural areas, such as Cochise County, where resources are often stretched thin and community organizations play a vital role in filling service gaps. Receiving a $10,000 grant has a significant positive impact on the Cochise County community, particularly given the documented needs in the area.
— Ramona McCaa, Chief Operation Officer, Sierra Vista Dream Center
This generous investment is more than a financial contribution—it’s a powerful affirmation of our mission, our values, and the youth we serve. It recognizes the importance of Black creativity, representation, and the need to foster spaces where young Black artists can thrive on their own terms.
— Shawna Scroggins, Executive Director, The Multivrs Is Illuminated (Tucson Rock Camp)
Receiving this grant is an affirmation of the importance of preserving, celebrating, and amplifying Black artistic voices. For Blue Lotus Artists’ Collective, this funding is not just financial support; it’s an investment in cultural equity, creative freedom, and the future of Black art.
— Laura Pendleton-Miller, Board President, Blue Lotus Artists’ Collective
