Frontdoors Magazine December 2017 by Frontdoors Media

DECEMBER 2017 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 12

Driven Give to

CAROLYN JACKSONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNIT Y GOES FAR BE YOND THE AUCTION BLOCK

FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM |1 2017 10 DECEMBER Questions with Vet Tix / Remembering Mike Saucier / An Inside Look at UMOM

PUBLISHER Andrea Tyler Evans CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cheyenne Brumlow CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Tom Evans CONTRIBUTING WRITER Jamie Killin SOCIETY AND FASHION WRITER Tyler Butler BEAUTY PARTNER - MAKE-UP The Sparkle Bar BEAUTY PARTNER - HAIR STYLING Julia Mendez

On the Cover

PHOTOGRAPHY PARTNER Thurlkill Studios

PHOTOGRAPHY Barrett-Jackson

GENERAL INFORMATION & PRESS RELEASES info@frontdoorsmedia.com 3104 E. Camelback Road #967 | Phoenix, AZ 85016 480-622-4522 | frontdoorsmedia.com

FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE IS DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF MIKE SAUCIER. 2 | FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM

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Give your children the gift of giving THE CHILDREN OF TODAY ARE THE PHILANTHROPISTS OF THE FUTURE. WE MAKE SURE THEY ’RE READY FOR THE CHALLENGE. We’re Generation Next, and we recognize that philanthropy is an integral part of the fabric of our society. That’s why we work with you to make sure your children — the next generation of philanthropists — understand the power of giving and find the causes they will support passionately. Find out how we can help your most precious legacy leave a legacy of their own.

MOLLIE C. TRIVERS

DECEMBER 2017

generationnextaz.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS {december 2017, volume 15, issue 12}

IN LOVING MEMORY.................. 06 Mike Saucier 1970-2017 COVER STORY........................... 12 Driven to Give 10 QUESTIONS WITH.................18 Mike Focareto KITCHEN DOORS....................... 22 Where We Ate This Month OFFICE DOORS.......................... 25 Lorraine Frias from the Phoenix Zoo GIVING IN STYLE....................... 28 Fashion in the Philanthropy Lane HEAR HERE................................ 34 News, Updates & Events CHARITY SPOTLIGHT................ 38 UMOM BOOKMARKED........................... 42 Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Reading What this Month A 2ND ACT. . ............................... 44 Military Assistance Mission PUBLISHER'S NOTE................... 47 Tax Credit Directory

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J OI N T H E T R A D I T I O N ON D E C E M BE R 3 0 At the PlayStationÂ® Fiesta Bowl our traditions are making memories and giving back. With help from fans across the country, the Fiesta Bowl Organization has donated over $10 MILLION to Arizona nonprofits in the past seven years benefitting YOUTH, SPORTS and EDUCATION.

U N I V E R S I T Y O F P H O E N I X S TA D I U M

GLENDALE, ARIZONA FA N F E S T | 9 : 3 0 A M

KICKOFF | 2:00 PM MST

G E T Y O U R T I C K E T S AT

FIESTABOWL.ORG DECEMBER 2017

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In Loving Memory of Mike Saucier 1970-2017

Tom Evans | CONTRIBUTING EDITOR If you’ve followed Frontdoors recently, by now you know that we lost our beloved editor, Mike Saucier, on November 1 after a brief and difficult battle with pancreatic cancer. It is an immeasurable personal and professional loss. Mike’s vision was invaluable in creating what you see on these pages and on our website. Mike was Frontdoors, as much as Andrea is, and certainly more than I am. Mike was an exceptional writer. He had the innate ability to cut through clutter, to take complex messages and turn them into something easily understood. That’s a primary skill for a journalist, but Mike’s ability to use the language to convey emotion was uncanny.

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Photo Credit: Thurkill DECEMBER 2017 Studios

And we collaborated well — we did our best work when we went back-and-forth, challenging the way we presented the information and creating work product that would resonate with who we were trying to reach. Mike tackled his role as editor with all his mind and heart. He met people throughout the Valley philanthropic and business communities and made an impression on the people he encountered. His cover stories for the magazine allowed him to dive into his craft and tell some great stories about people and places in the community. He did speaking engagements, interviewed celebrities, and found stories that were off the beaten path. He did everything we could have ever hoped from the editor of our fledgling publication, and so much more. Even more importantly, we were friends. He and his wife Fernanda Santos and his 8-year-old daughter Flora have been frequent guests in our home and vice versa — Flora and our daughter Ellie are close friend and playmates. Once you got a chance to get to know him personally, you were able to experience the qualities that made him an exceptional human being. Mike was unassuming and kind, thoughtful but quietly confident. He always had time for a conversation and was always willing to help. He was a guy’s guy, someone who liked football and beer and rock music but also someone who read voraciously and studied the world around him. And suddenly, in a matter of weeks, he was gone.

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Pancreatic cancer is vicious, and insidious — by the time most people have symptoms, they’re already at Stage III or worse. That was the case with Mike. On September 19, Mike and Fernanda were in a group of eight of us who piled into Andrea’s Chevy Tahoe and went to see U2 together. He seemed in perfect health, and I’ll always remember that date as the last time everything felt normal. On October 1, after suffering from stomach pain for about a week, Mike was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I would like to be able to tell you that there was some hope, but this is not a story about rallying around the fight. His doctors developed a treatment plan for him, but the cancer was simply too aggressive. Mike handled those last days with incredible grace and gratitude. He comforted those who came to comfort him. He found peace with the terrible diagnosis, and was thankful for the life he was able to experience and enjoy. He savored his time with his family, loved ones and friends. Of all the things I admire about Mike, the way he spent those last days will always stand out. He didn’t leave anything unsaid to anyone he cared about. On Wednesday, November 1, Mike Saucier passed away. It was only five weeks after his symptoms showed up, and 30 days after his diagnosis.

Certainly those last weeks were difficult, painful, agonizing, heartbreaking. But that’s not the real story of Mike’s final days with us.

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Photo Credit: Fernanda Santos

Photo Credit: Santos 8 | Fernanda FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM

Photo Credit: Stuart Thurkill

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Photo Credit: Fernanda Santos

MIKE SAUCIER CONTINUED

See, I didn’t know this, but it turns out that Mike Saucier was a collector of people. He was a connector, someone who brought people together and made their lives fuller. He had spent his entire life showing the same incredible qualities to everyone he came across — earning lifelong friendships and shaping people’s lives in the process. When the news of his diagnosis broke, it started a steady stream of positive comments throughout social media, of phone calls and texts to Mike’s phone, of e-mails and handwritten messages of love and support. Friends and family flocked to Arizona — including a group of nine of his friends from Boston who dropped everything to make an impromptu trip while Mike was still feeling well enough to see them. Family from both Mike and Fernanda’s side flew in for the duration of his time. He had a steady stream of visitors throughout those last weeks, and always greeted them with as

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much of a smile and as much strength as he could gather — and always, with a sense of peace, acceptance and gratitude. The comments came in from those in our own community as well, as news slowly spread to those who knew him from his all-too-brief time with Frontdoors. The impression he made on people in such a short time was remarkable. Before he got sick, I used to think Mike was on his way to becoming part of the fabric of the community. Turns out he already had. Mike brought people together even in his passing. Hundreds of people attended his funeral services in Massachusetts. His Facebook page was flooded with photos and memories stretching from his childhood to his time in Arizona. The Facebook post we placed on the Frontdoors page when he passed was viewed more than 22,000 times and shared by 84 people. Hundreds of people contributed to Flora’s college fund and a memorial fund set up in his honor.

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MIKE SAUCIER CONTINUED

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HONOR MIKE’S MEMORY, THERE ARE TWO GREAT WAYS YOU CAN DO SO: You may donate to a Go Fund Me account established to create a college fund for his 8-year-old daughter Flora. It’s a great way to directly support his family and ensure Flora will achieve her dreams. To donate, visit: www.gofundme.com/mikesaucier-college-fund-for-flora

Also, we have set up a memorial fund to create a scholarship or foundation in his honor. To donate, visit a Bank of Arizona branch or send a check to: Mike Saucier Memorial Fund c/o Trish Anderson Bank of Arizona 3001 E. Camelback Phoenix, Arizona 85016

And here in Arizona, a group of several dozen of his closest friends and colleagues held a small, quiet celebration for him on a sunny Sunday afternoon, with his beloved New England Patriots playing in the background, and shared stories about Mike and how he touched our lives. We raised a glass or two in his honor, and remembered the incredible impact he had on each of us.

We’re going to do everything we can to help Fernanda and Flora during this challenging time. Their journey will be the hardest, so much more so than what we’ll experience as his friends and colleagues. We are working with Fernanda to start some sort of scholarship or foundation in his memory — information on how you can support it, as well as Flora’s college fund, is included in a sidebar. We’ll be developing a plan for the foundation in the coming weeks, with the goal of ensuring Mike’s impact lasts for generations to come. And we’ll keep pushing forward with everything we are doing at Frontdoors. Mike gave us a compass for the magazine, and helped us navigate just long enough so that we can see where we need to go. Finally, we are dedicating Frontdoors Media and Frontdoors Magazine to Mike Saucier’s memory in perpetuity. It’s the least we can do to honor what he’s meant to us, both as our colleague and as our friend. We will miss our good friend and colleague, Mike Saucier, a great deal. Thank you, Mike, for everything you did to touch the lives of everyone you encountered.

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Photo Credit: 12 Barrett-Jackson | FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM

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COVER STORY {by tom evans}

Driven Give to

CAROLYN JACKSON’S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY GOES FAR BEYOND THE AUCTION BLOCK

Carolyn Jackson doesn’t care for the term “philanthropist” when it comes to her work in the community. “I really consider myself to be a volunteer — one who engages in community and supports philanthropic efforts throughout the year,” she said. It’s easy to see the distinction when it comes to Carolyn’s involvement since moving to the community in 2010. After marrying Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction chairman and CEO Craig Jackson, she quickly immersed herself into a supporting role for a broad spectrum of nonprofit organizations, both through the auction and on her own. She serves as Brand Manager for the

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incredibly successful company as well as participating extensively in the auction and Jackson family’s charitable endeavors. But she also has extensive involvement in the Phoenix Heart Ball, the Phoenix Symphony, ChildHelp, TGen and more. Carolyn and Craig received first Pope Humanitarian Award from the Phoenix Theatre in 2016. It’s that diversity in giving, especially at this time of year, which enables her to maximize her contribution to the Valley’s philanthropic community. “During the holiday season, this is particularly important,” she said. “There are many whose basic primary needs, like food, aren’t being met. I personally like helping out smaller

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Photo Credit: Barrett-Jackson

COVER STORY CONTINUED

charities like Families Giving Back, which assembles Thanksgiving meal bags for those in need. It is hands-on and has a direct impact in our community. It is heartwarming to see photos of the families enjoying their holiday season because of this support.” Born and raised in Manhattan, Carolyn credits her parents for instilling in her since her childhood a philosophy toward giving back.

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“My mother and father always said that it’s not enough to do well, you have to do good,” she said. “They led by example. After more than 50 years of giving, my father still volunteers his time to support his community and his church. I am inspired by their charitable nature to this day, which is why I’m a firm believer in giving back.” Carolyn said some of her most rewarding charitable work was centered around

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Photo Credit: Barrett-Jackson

family, while providing an opportunity to help potentially save lives. “Probably one of the most rewarding experiences to date has been working with the Russ and Brian Jackson Cancer Research Fund at TGen, which was established by my husband Craig in 2010 in honor of his father and brother, whose lives were cut short by colon cancer,” she said. “We’ve been able to see firsthand how TGen’s work has saved the lives of those we love.” And, her involvement with the Phoenix Heart Ball — for which she has served on the board since 2013 — will culminate with the honor of serving as Chairwoman in 2018. “It is a great honor to have been chosen for the role of Heart Ball Chairman by such an esteemed and accomplished

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group of women,” she said. “Although I will naturally add my own distinctive flair to the event – which is one of the largest Heart Balls in the nation – I fully intend to draw on the wealth of knowledge and expertise of those who have been in this role in the past. As a team, we are committed to working diligently to achieve the goal of increasing both funds and awareness, as well as improving the heart health of our community.” With the 2018 Scottsdale edition of Barrett-Jackson approaching quickly — January 13-21, 2018 — the focus of the Jackson family has turned to a significant milestone. The auction expects to reach the $100 million mark in funds generated by the charity auctions from the auction block this year. They’ve particularly focused on charities that fund medical research, children and

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This 35th Anniversary Chevy Corvette will be sold in the Scottsdale auction in January to honor longtime Barrett-Jackson patron Dave Ressler and raise money for charity.

“

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My mother and father always said that it’s not enough to do well, you have to do good, they led by example. 16 | FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM

veterans, including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Paralyzed Veterans of America, country music artist Zac Brown’s passion project Camp Southern Ground and Steven Tyler’s Janie’s Fund. “Reaching the $100 million mark raised for charity is one of our biggest goals,” Carolyn said. “My long-term vision is to actively work on initiatives that will help increase the lifespan of these philanthropic efforts beyond the three minutes on the auction block." Carolyn said that the moments when vehicles cross the auction block for a cause are handsdown her favorite part of each auction. “We are honored to have provided a platform over the years for more than 100 different charitable initiatives through these unique sales, which not only raise much-needed funds, but awareness,” she said. “We are fortunate to have so many

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Photo Credit: Barrett-Jackson

generous members of the collector car community who both donate the vehicles and bid to provide this vital support.” But Carolyn said she also gets a great deal of gratification from the work of smaller charities in the community which may not have the profile of the ones that benefit from the auction. “Mother’s Grace is one that immediately comes to mind,” she said. “I was introduced to this very special organization by Angela Ducey, the wife of Arizona Governor Doug Ducey, and was immediately impressed… Mother’s Grace provides financial aid and mentorship to mothers and children in need, and although they might not be as prominent as some charitable organizations, their work in our community is incredibly important.”

decade, Carolyn’s mark on the community has been significant. She said her advice to others looking to increase their community giving would be to follow the words of Martin Luther King: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” “There are so many opportunities to help other people,” she said. “I would suggest finding an organization that aligns with your passion and see if they need assistance. Ask friends, neighbors or coworkers. Another good resource is the website www.volunteermatch.org, which connects people to causes that suit their skills in their communities.”

Despite living in Arizona for less than a

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QUESTIONS WITHâ&#x20AC;Ś Mike Focareto Founder and CEO, Vet Tix

1. How did Vet Tix get started? In 2007, while attending a self-expressionleadership course at Landmark Education, I was challenged to create a business project that changed our local Arizona community. My modest plan was taking a few vets to a baseball game on Memorial Day. Then while attending Super Bowl XLII in Arizona in 2008 with a friend I had my epiphany. During the opening ceremony, one 18 | FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM

of my friends who was serving in the military came out with the Color Guard. After the presentation, the color guard was not given seats and was escorted off the field and allowed to stand in the mezzanine. We were both frustrated at the snub or oversight. Even more frustrating however was the fact that two seats near me went unused the entire game. It was at that moment that the idea for the Veteran Tickets Foundation took wings and became a reality a month later. DECEMBER 2017

2. What does Vet Tix hope to provide veterans? First, smiles and memories. For many in uniform, missed holidays, births, birthdays, anniversaries, funerals, and other milestones in life are all too common. Even when these heroes do come home or are discharged, many of these events are beyond their financial abilities and personal budgets. In fact, per our 2015 study 75 percent can’t afford going to events. We want to change that. When folks join Vet Tix they have access to daily emails advising them of events in their area and type of tickets they requested. They pay no more than $14.97 delivery fee for tickets.

3. How does Vet Tix connect to veterans? Over time, as word of mouth spread the story of our organization and what we were doing for veterans, thousands began reaching out to us, wanting to be a part of this amazing 501(c)(3) organization. Vet Tix has over 660,000 verified veterans and active military members currently serving in our system, a number that grows every day. To date, Vet Tix has given out over 3.8 million tickets in all 50 states. A milestone of over 1 million tickets has been distributed so far in 2017, and counting.

4. What has been veterans’ response to Vet Tix? We have over 210,000 thank you testimonials

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— our growth is word of mouth, and social media interaction has been outstanding. One of our participants Joe DeLand said, “What’s likely the most easily identifiable benefit is a financial one. Many Veterans face financial challenges while making the transition from military to civilian life. In many cases, at least in the beginning, the jobs that veterans get when they leave the military do not pay as well as their military job when you take all of the benefits into account. As such, many events that would interest Veterans may be cost prohibitive. The Veteran Tickets Foundation allows Veterans to enjoy events with their friends and family that they otherwise would not be able to attend. However, in my eyes, there is a much more valuable benefit to what the Vet Tix provides. There are many Veterans who have long lasting psychological effects from their time in service. In many cases this leads to antisocial behavior and depression caused in part because the Veterans isolates themselves from others. I know this all too well, because this is something that I deal with.

5. What kinds of partners does Vet Tix work with and why? Vet Tix works with almost every team in MLB, NHL, NBA, NFL, minor leagues, NCAA teams and NASCAR to send VetTixers to sporting events. Beyond sports, Vet Tix events FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM | 19

10 QUESTIONS WITH... CONTINUED

also include operas, concerts, plays, family programs, symphonies, comedy clubs and even admission to theme parks. We also have over a dozen military partners like the VA, Semper Fi Fund, Armed Services YMCA, Blue Star Families, Service Women’s Action Network, and Military Caregivers Network. All these partners see our value we provide and support us.

6. How have ticket donors responded to the work of Vet Tix? They are aware of a few things, first we help them fill seats and our attendees spend money at events they would not have garnered. According to our team of donors, 25 to 50 percent of tickets donated to nonprofits are actually used. Vet Tix usage is 90 percent. They also write off the value of ticket and help vets…it’s a win-win-win.

7. How does Vet Tix help veterans engage with the community? Sadly, in our survey we learned 15 percent of the 28,000 respondents were uncomfortable going out and to events, some have PTSD. We insist that two tickets be requested…we want interaction with others. Now 50 percent of those folks are ok with going to events because they know other VetTixers will be around them.

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8. How many veterans have benefitted from Vet Tix? More than 600,000 since 2008. Approximately 20,000 in Arizona alone.

9. What kind of positive impact do you feel Vet Tix has had on the community? We help fill seats with happy people who spend a few bucks at the venues. Our economic impact in the community was over $31 million in tickets shared.

10. How can community members help further Vet Tix’s mission? Simple, If you are a vet or currently serving… sign up! It’s easy through vettix.org. Second, if you are an individual and not going to events, donate them to get a write off and help a vet. If you are involved with an organization, theatre or team and you know tickets are not being used, we can help you fill those seats and get a write off. They too can be uploaded electronically on vettix.org or sent physically to us.

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KITCHEN DOORS {where we ate this month}

ELLY’S BRUNCH & CAFE Central Phoenix The revamp of Uptown Plaza at Central and Camelback has launched a few new entries into the Arizona culinary scene. The most recent is Elly’s Brunch & Cafe, which has already established itself as a weekend contender in the burgeoning North Central Phoenix restaurant scene. The sizable dining room lends itself to a great indoor/outdoor environment, and the expansive menu will scratch the itch of just about every breakfast and brunch connoisseur. You can go traditional with crepes and waffles, healthy with their salads and bowls, heavy with their ample-portioned breakfasts and sandwiches and highly caffeinated with a variety of quality coffees to choose from. With all the options to choose from in North Central, Elly’s Brunch and Cafe is one where you can be sure you won’t go wrong. — Tom Evans Photo: Elly's Brunch & Cafe

FREAK BROTHERS PIZZA Phoenix If you go to as many food-centric festivals as I do, you may have started to notice Freak Brothers Pizza — the mobile pizza shop offering up organic, non-GMO, gluten free and even vegan pizza options across the Valley. I first discovered their incredible, thin-crust, crispy pizza masterpieces at Lost Lake Festival and was ecstatic to see them again at the recent Phoenix Pizza Festival. They offer your standby favorites — like cheese and pepperoni — as well as more creative picks like the Sriracha Chicken and my personal favorite, the Pesto Madness. I’m incredibly impressed by this mobile wonder’s ability to deliver delicious, restaurant-quality, wood-fired pizza from a tent, but it’s been announced that they’ll be opening a restaurant in downtown Phoenix soon — which I already can’t wait to try. — Jamie Killin Photo: Freak Brothers Pizza

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Photo: Richardson's

Richardson's Cuisine of New Mexico Central Phoenix I’ve literally grown up with Richardson’s. It became my favorite restaurant within about a year of my moving to the Valley after college, in the early Paleozoic Era. Put it this way — when it was time to take the future Mrs. Evans out for a proper first date, that’s where I took her. We’ve been back every year since on the Sunday after Thanksgiving (except for the period when the original burned down and the new one wasn’t built yet) — and about once a DECEMBER 2017

month since. And the key is variety — you want exceptionally tasty carne adovada? Go to Richardson’s. Top-notch steaks and seafood? Go to Richardson’s. Delicious pastas? Go to Richardson’s (although I’m still mad the Gumbo Pasta came off the menu). If you have a craving, chances are Richardson’s can fix it. Just as it’s always been, and hopefully always will be. — Tom Evans

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OFFICE DOORS {leadership}

LORRAINE FRIAS VP OF DEVELOPMENT, PHOENIX ZOO

Jamie Killin | CONTRIBUTING WRITER For Lorraine Frias, success is all about relationships. Frias has spent more than two decades working with the Phoenix Zoo. She began in a sales role in the events department and worked her way up to her current role as vice president of development — but what has remained most important to her over the years is the people she has encountered. “One of the parts of my job that I love most is dealing with these different types of folks, good people who have good hearts — from a foundation to a corporation,” she said. “It’s good having those relationships because you can call and ask for their DECEMBER 2017

advice or their opinion or an introduction.” Even before entering her current role in development, Frias found herself connecting with community members through her events position. “I got to meet a lot of people in the community,” she said. “I was out talking to people at the chambers and the convention bureau, just so they would know that the zoo now does special events and conventions.” Now in her current role, she gets to use her relationship building skills to connect donors to the projects that matter most to FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM | 25

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What’s most impactful are the one-on-one relationships that I start building with a donor and finding the right project that works for them. them and that will make the biggest impact on the zoo. “What’s most impactful are the one-onone relationships that I start building with a donor and finding the right project that works for them,” she said. “Because of the relationships I have you start seeing amazing gifts coming in.” Those gifts lead to another aspect of what makes Frias’ role so important — community. “They’re the ones making a difference in the community,” she said of the zoo’s donors. She notes that with each project the zoo takes on, the team considers not only the positive impact on the zoo, but on the community as a whole. One of the Phoenix Zoo’s most recent projects, the Wildlife Amphitheater, which broke ground in November, is an example of this. “This is great for the zoo but it’s also part of the community because we’ll be able to service more kids, we’ll be able to partner with nonprofits so they can do events and so we’re really excited and a lot of people in the community were excited about this specific project,” Frias said. 26 | FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM

It’s changes like this have made the zoo what it is today — one of the premiere conservation centers and zoos in the Southwest, with impressive changes since its opening over 50 years ago. “It’s been very satisfying to play a role in the zoo’s growth,” Frias said. “Not just for me or the zoo, but how we’re better serving our audience so every time we start a new project it’s good for the zoo but it’s also about how it’s going to impact the community.” Her favorite initiatives are the ones that allow children to enjoy the zoo and make memories that will last a lifetime. “One of my favorite programs is our ZooReach program where we raise funds for underserved kids to come to the zoo,” she said. “I know other cultural organizations offer the same program but it’s really important that we give every child the opportunity to come out to the zoo, and we raise funds so kids can come to night camp or summer camp or a daytime visit.” While Frias acknowledges how unique it is for someone to stay in a fundraising role like hers for so long, she remains focused on continuing to be a part of the zoo’s growth, particularly through its current capital campaign. “In fundraising you don’t typically see a fundraiser in that position for as long as I’ve been in this position,” she said. “Mainly my goal right now is to have a successful campaign and to be a part of that, but to be able to see all of the projects that will result from this campaign because it’s really going to I think to set the zoo in a different direction.”

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GIVING IN STYLE {fashion in the philanthropy lane}

MONIQUE LHUILLIER’S Love Letter to Paris Set Phoenix on Fire Tyler Butler | SOCIETY AND FASHION WRITER Monique Lhuillier set the Valley of the Sun on fire when she brought her spring 2018 collection to Phoenix in support of the Brophy Fashion Show. It’s clear this involvement spoke to her altruistic nature, but what people might not know is that she also has a personal tie to the educational institution through her husband, who attended the school himself. The collection Lhuillier shared with the Phoenix community was a special contribution by the iconic wedding dress designer though, as it took a departure from her 15-year tenure showing at New York Fashion Week. Lhuillier instead debuted her newest collection at Paris Fashion Week. “Paris is the fashion capital of the world, and being half French, I just felt it was the perfect time to debut in Paris,” Lhuillier said. Unveiling the collection in Paris was literally a dream come true for the prominent dressmaker. Her objective was simple — Lhuillier wanted to show during couture week specifically to display

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how these clothes shine. And with every intention of showing a connection to the esthetic of Paris, it was most apparent what the designers’ inspiration was. This collection was Lhuillier’s “love letter to Paris,” showing how the city has inspired her over the years. This sentiment was based on what Lhuillier felt a woman should look like when she lives and walks the streets of the famous fashion mecca. Like so many high-end designers, Lhuillier has a long standing relationship with Neiman Marcus and when invited to share this collection locally, she couldn’t resist. Lhuillier was drawn to the mission of the Brophy Fashion Show. As a mom she recognizes the importance of education and she wanted to salute the fundraising endeavor that is focused on cultivating resources for scholarships awarded to academically-qualified students who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend Brophy. She also wants to instill into her 11-year-old son Jack the characteristics of service that provided her with even

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Kitty Broderick, designer Monique Lhuillier and Tim Braun, Neiman Marcus General Manager

more reason to support this cause and to take her support one step further by donating a gown to the auction. Lhuillier’s desire to give back and the example she looks to set for her son has also included trips to her homeland in the Philippines, where they support different causes annually, volunteer and donate during their visits. The designer believes it is every person’s responsibility “to give back and make this place a better world.” She sees these opportunities as a way to level the playing field of life, trying to give more people the same chances that others have. Lhuillier’s heart for helping others similarly extends to other causes, each relating to her personal and professional life, namely women and children. She sits on boards and committees for Baby2Baby and the Breast Cancer Research Fund. Her involvement with the latter is due in large part to her continued support of several close friends who have battled breast cancer. And her involvement with Baby2Baby clearly links to her role as a mother as well as to the focus of this

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cause. Baby2Baby is an organization out of Los Angeles that provides low income families with diapers, clothing and basic necessities — things that can be taken for granted, but things these children really need. Naturally, her business in the apparel industry makes for an innate tie in for this cause. “I can see when I get involved in charities that I am bringing attention to the good work the organization is doing,” she said. She recognizes further that the manner in which she lives her life is an example in and of itself. “Because so many young girls follow my career I feel I am showing them how to get involved with charities and different ways to contribute,” she said. Her teams throughout the globe also emulate her example. The retail employees will volunteer throughout the holidays in their local markets to help organizations that are meaningful in their communities. The entire Monique Lhuillier team recognizes that the most valuable commodity to donate, after all, is time.

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GIVING IN STYLE CONTINUED

The collective power and personality of the women who have chaired this event over its celebrated history is remarkable. Not only have they led the way for progress in this vital area of health, but they have done so with panache. The innovation through fashion and design used to promote and grow this mega-event is present each year as a new color scheme and theme is imagined. And there is undoubtedly a connection between giving and style that can be seen through these generous dogooders. Hubble said it best when she explained, “Philanthropy helps a person show their inner beauty, while fashion helps show your outer beauty and one needs both of those things to be the best version of themselves.” It is clear that the women leading this charge have a magnanimous philanthropic

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essence as well as the style and approach to keep the storied Phoenix Heart Ball leading the way as one of the nation’s most glamourous fundraising galas. The presence of great inner beauty shown through their commitment to philanthropy and pizazz as shown through their constant development of the theme continues to astonish supporters and keep this event and the cause it supports at the forefront.

Tyler Butler

SOCIETY AND FASHION WRITER givinginstyle.net

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GIVING IN STYLE GIFT GIVING GUIDE Tis the season to give. And nothing is better than giving a gift that also gives back to society. The Giving In Style Gift Guide recognizes people’s desire to give unique presents while giving back to those less fortunate. Check out this carefully curated list of gift recommendations for the altruistic gift givers out there. Give the gift that keeps on giving...to others!

Tyler Butler | SOCIETY AND FASHION WRITER

STARTING AT

$14

$50

$49

FOR THIS & SIMILAR OPTIONS

Addison Taylor – Tree of Life Movement Intention Stick Necklace

Happy Grace – Bliss Balm Set “Courage”

ONEHOPE Wine – Glitter Bottles

Unleash the power within to enhance your life and change the world by joining the movement and purchasing your very own Intention Stick. Available in several fabrications, the Intention Stick is available for sale at Addison Taylor Fine Jewelry’s gallery in Scottsdale. A portion of proceeds generated by sales will be used to plant trees and aid philanthropic causes around the world. You will also be giving the opportunity of employment to individuals with neurological disabilities, who will be fulfilling all orders placed around the world.

Make the world a happier place while nourishing your lips. Each tube of yumminess is made from organic, glutenfree ingredients, including sunflower oil, beeswax, coconut oil, vitamin E, rosemary extract, calendula extract and essential oils in our scented balms. This set includes three invigorating balms to nourish your lips and lift your spirit. Bonus: $1 of every set sold is donated to Impact One Breast Cancer Foundation.

Brighten your world through beautifully crafted products and experiences and bring people together to celebrate and serve! OneHope Wine Glitter Bottles are great for the holidays. And the 1.5 liter 10-year Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon bottles are perfect to make the holiday dinner table extra special! Every bottle of ONEHOPE wine supports a charitable cause. For example, every bottle of their Sparkling Brut funds two meals for someone in need.

$20

$68

$40

“The Tale of Christmas Steve”

Feed Project - Market Tote

The Shine Project – There is Good in the World Sweatshirt

Rich Berra, nationally syndicated radio host of iHeart Media’s Johnjay and Rich Show debuts “The Tale of Christmas Steve,” a hilarious and heartwarming holiday children’s book. The whimsical story about a Christmas elf is a timely reminder that everyone has something unique to offer — no matter the outside package. This 32page hardcover book donates proceeds to the Johnjay and Rich Christmas Wish program, a division of #LoveUp, which provides food, clothing, comfort and holiday presents to those in need.

Up your green market game with this durable and chic refresh of the reusable tote. Sturdy sides keep your produce safely stacked, while exterior pockets provide easy-access to phone and wallet. The Feed Project creates good products that help feed the world. Each bag sold supports meals for children in need and clearly showcases how many meal your generous purchase contributes.

The Shine Project's purpose is to inspire you to live the highest quality of life obtainable. Their products are touted as the softest you’ll ever wear, and this rayon spandex blend feels like a dream! The sweatshirt comes in blush, lavender, olive and black. Your purchase supports students who are given scholarships through this non-profit are then given jobs through their company, so they can be mentored and guided every step of the way.

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DECEMBER 2017

ENJOY A PIECE OF SPORTS HISTORY Brenda and Kurt Warner, co-founders of Treasure House, a supportive living community for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, have a wonderful holiday offer that comes with a tax-deduction. The Warners are generously offering Kurt Warner signed limited-edition commemorative Hall of Fame footballs, with all proceeds going to benefit Treasure House, slated to open in March 2018.

To support the Warners' efforts with Treasure House and to receive a commemorative football, visit the Treasure House web site at: treasurehouse.org/for-the-ultimate-football-fan/

For a donation of $500, you can own one of these autographed footballs, recognizing #13’s accomplishments on his storybook journey to Canton. If you’d like to also have the football personalized with a brief message, this special option is available with a donation of $750. This offer will only be available for a limited time, and all orders will ship the week of December 4th. Your donation is eligible for a tax deduction for 2017 — another thing to celebrate.

DECEMBER 2017

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HEAR HERE {news, updates and events} The best stories we saw this month about those who give generously and work for a better future.

ASHLEY JUDD TO RECEIVE SANDRA DAY O’CONNOR LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD The Arizona Foundation for Women, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the status of Arizona women, will honor Golden Globe nominated actress, humanitarian and author Ashley Judd with its 2018 Sandra Day O’Connor Lifetime Achievement Award at the organization’s annual luncheon on March 26. “Ms. Judd brings to light in her work

around women’s issues a topic many prefer to keep in the dark, deny, block out, ignore or simply are not aware of,” said Arizona Foundation for Women CEO Mesha Davis. “It’s hard to hear of a child, woman, or anyone, being sexually exploited or abused, let alone talk about it openly. We need dedicated individuals like Ms. Judd to take a stand. We need to say, ‘It ends here! It ends now! It ends today.’” READ MORE ONLINE

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HEAR HERE CONTINUED

JOSH MEIBOS NAMED 2018 ARIZONA TEACHER OF THE YEAR Josh Meibos, a physical education teacher at Crockett Elementary within the Balsz School District, was named the Arizona Educational Foundation’s 2018 Teacher of the Year at a luncheon on November 7. As Teacher of the Year, Josh will receive a $15,000 cash prize, a trip to the White House to meet the president and an opportunity to become the National Teacher of the Year. The recognition also provides a platform for Meibos who hopes to serve as an advocate for teachers.

“I’m in a situation where I feel like I’ve proven myself throughout the years,” he said. “I’ve carved out a seat at the table and have been able to be part of the discussion and got a little bit of some political capital within the district and some organizations that are statewide and nationwide and I don’t want to leave that.” Meibos has been teaching physical education at Crockett Elementary during his entire seven-year teaching career. He is a member of the Hope Street Teacher Fellowship and recently completed the process for National Board Certification which he’ll receive

READ MORE ONLINE

DECEMBER 2017

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GIVING BACK {charity spotlight}

UMOM NEW DAY CENTERS Judy Pearson | CONTRIBUTING WRITER Photography by Thurlkill Studios

THE CAUSE When Darlene Newsom was a young teen, she watched her father putting food and clothing in a box for a family in need. Living in the middle class, she couldn’t fathom anyone who didn’t have basic needs. That was, she says, her a-ha moment. Now, decades later, Newsom lives that exact moment every day as CEO of UMOM New Day Centers. The organization’s $22 million budget has enabled them, in the last twelve months, to feed more than 190,500 homeless individuals. Additionally, more than 750 homeless teens have been helped through Tumbleweed, a service that became a part of UMOM in May 2017. More than 190 women have been served at the Bruce and Diane Halle Foundation Women’s Center 38 | FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM

since it opened in June 2017 as Arizona’s first full service women’s center. But the statistic Newsom is the most proud of is 1,850. That’s the number of households who have left UMOM for permanent housing. This has always been the organization’s goal and is the first thing you see on their homepage: “Everything that matters starts with a home.” “America is so rich,” Newsom said. “We should never have homeless vets or homeless children.” If she was given one wish it would, of course, be to end homelessness. But until that happens, she has another.

DECEMBER 2017

THE STORY “We haven’t broken through the barrier yet — where the community understands who they are, the people on the street corners,” Newsom said. “There are so many myths about the homeless, such as that they’re too lazy to get a job. It’s much, much more than that.

Shelter is a start, but not a solution. Providing shelter only and doing nothing more will never end homelessness. They employ a “Housing First” approach, moving people into housing as quickly as possible. It’s an approach with a proven track record to end homelessness.

“A homeless situation is like an onion, with lots of layers,” she said. “There are many reasons why someone is homeless and on the streets: the loss of a job, a traumatic brain injury, fleeing someone who’s abusive, a child with a disability. Sixty-two percent of Americans don’t have a safety net. One big medical bill or car repair can leave them homeless.

Then they match services and programs to the needs, and tackle the issues that led to homelessness in the first place: job training, childcare, healthcare, healthy food, basic financial training, treatment for physical and mental disorders. All of these fall under UMOM’s services, and Newsom’s never tiring drive.

“So my second wish would be to make everyone aware of those facts.” Obstacles to permanent housing take many forms. The moment a family or individual steps into the shelter, UMOM employees listen. They learn who the family is and what happened to them.

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“What keeps me up at night and gets me up in the morning are the 214 families on our waiting list who don’t have a safe place to stay,” she said. “They give me energy every day to find more and do more.” Another thing that keeps Newsom going is a focus on youth. When children switch schools frequently due to housing instability, they tend to perform worse

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GIVING BACK CONTINUED

in their studies, are more likely to have learning disabilities and behavioral problems, and are much less likely to graduate from high school. That can extend the cycle of homelessness for generations. As for Tumbleweed, when UMOM took on the struggling program nearly a year ago, Newsom said, “The hope is that we're going to be able to transfer a lot of those programs to UMOM to continue to operate them, so none of the services that they currently provide go away.” Thankfully, 75 percent of the programs were integrated, and those that were not had been discontinued prior to UMOM taking over. Now the intention is to grow

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those programs — to provide even stronger services for young adults ages 18–24, giving them a safe place to eat, shower, access educational and employment resources, and connect to a team of specialists who can assist them in ending their housing crisis. UMOM New Day Centers’ — and Darlene Newsom’s — tasks would be daunting to many. But they face them head on, with unblinking hope. Newsom is reminded every day of that family her father help so many years ago. That image is her motivation, and her purpose. umom.org

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BOOKMARKED {what are you reading}

The National Conversation on Board Diversity

Michelle Tinsley Panelist, Sales Director and Market Acceleration Accounts, Regional Sales Group – Intel Americas

IS READING Small Great Things BY JODI PICOULT H E R TA K E “I love it, so it’s a very interesting story, a little long, but I’m plowing through it quickly...I’m only about 40 percent of the way through but I’ll definitely finish it and try to see how

this ends. I love the way the author — she’ll take a current event or a theme going on at the time and write this fictional book on it.”

Deborah Bateman Event Vice Chair, Bice Chairman of the Board of Directors, National Bank of Arizona

IS READING Undaunted Courage BY STEPHEN E. AMBROSE H E R TA K E “I’m reading a book on Lewis and Clark, the whole expedition. This past summer I spent four months basically traveling around in a motor coach and so explorers or history. I just become so engaged and involved in so the

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story of these two men who took off across this country to really explore where no men had really been before — it just intrigues me and inspires me to no end.”

DECEMBER 2017

BOOKMARKED {what are you reading}

Sharon Lechter Event Chairman, Founder & CEO of Pay Your Family First

IS READING Think and Grow Rich

BY NAPOLEON HILL

H E R TA K E “I’m re-reading the book 'Think and Grow Rich' for about the 150th time. The book doesn’t change, but we change, so from one time to the

next we’ll find something different and something new — a different message in the book because our lives have changed.”

Elaine E. Ralls Ph.D., Event Vice Chair, CEO of Commit Agency

IS READING Shanghai Girls BY LISA SEE H E R TA K E “Right now I’m reading a dessert for the brain book and it’s called 'Shanghai Girls' and it’s unbelievably good. Can’t put it down — and I can’t wait to pick it up. It’s about women in China

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in the 1800s and 1900s trying to come to America and everything they have to go through. It’s a wonderful story about women.”

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A 2ND ACT {stories of perseverance}

MAM

MILITARY ASSISTANCE MISSION AIDS SOLDIERS, HELPS GRIEVING PARENT FIND PURPOSE

Judy Pearson | CONTRIBUTING WRITER On April 1, 2005, Margy Bons's son, Michael Marzano, called from his deployment in Iraq. He had just been promoted to sergeant. “Michael took a financial hit when he left his job to serve his country with the Marines,” Margy says. “But as a sergeant, he was going to make $1,800 a month. He was so excited about that.” Then came the unfathomable phone call on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 7, 2005. Michael had been killed by a suicide borne vehicle filled with IEDs. That date also happened to be his birthday. Margy continued through her grief as a volunteer with an organization that delivered care packages to deployed troops. But service to the country, Michael’s

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passion, was the work that lived in her heart and her head. In that spirit, in 2012 she proudly launched Military Assistance Mission (MAM). At the heart of MAM’s work is their financial assistance program, allowing them to meet the financial needs of lower ranking service members and all Purple Heart recipients, regardless of rank. While injured service members receive medical care through the Veteran’s Administration, many need caregiving. This complicates a spouse’s employment, and impacts overall household income. Now, mainly through word of mouth, service members find MAM, fill out an online application, and receive grants to pay for

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items like rent, car payments and repairs, insurance, food and utilities.

Aaron replied they were having difficulty just putting food on the table.

Although Margy rarely has the occasion to meet the recipients, there are times where paths cross. Such was the case with a soldier named Aaron. He, too, had been victim of an IED explosion. Now, facing incredible physical challenges, his home’s gas was about to be shut off. Because of his disabilities and additional upcoming surgeries, his wife was unable to work.

“That was all I needed to hear,” Margy said. “Not only did we pay their gas bill and get them food cards, I told them about a Back to School event we were having. We were full, but I made sure I set aside extra backpacks for that family. When they saw the backpacks, those kids’ eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning.”

During her conversation with Aaron, Margy heard children laughing in the background. “Do your kids have what they need to go back to school?” she asked. As expected, DECEMBER 2017

Better still, after Aaron’s surgery, he got a job, his wife got a job, and they’re now back from the brink of losing everything. Aside from giving service members and FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM | 45

A 2ND ACT CONTINUED

their families several hundred thousand dollars over the last five years, Military Assistance Mission does morale work as well. The “Seats for Soldiers” programs at local sports games are a part of their work. In addition, they’ve given thousands of Christmas gifts through their Holidays for Heroes initiative. It allows the public to adopt a military family, ensuring they have holiday gifts and meals. “But I want to do more,” Margy says. “I want the public to know that although the military dons uniforms everyday, they still struggle. It’s not like they’re wearing football uniforms. They’re not paid NFL salaries. And it doesn’t matter whether you like war or not. We enjoy our freedoms because of the work our military does. Every day. All day.” The acronym MAM is the same as Michael’s initials. “I wanted the name to mean something. And it does,” Margy says. “And I know Michael would be proud of what we’re doing."

Judy Pearson the mother of a career Air Force Intelligence Agent who just completed his second Middle East tour. She’s also a journalist, published author, and the founder of A2ndAct. org. Her organization supports and celebrates women survivors of all cancers as they give back to the greater good in their 2nd Acts. Her passion is finding those who have healed themselves by helping others.

HAIR BY

Julia Mendez Corrective Cutting � Event Styling � Color Specialist PERSON AL APPOIN TM EN TS AVA IL A BL E

602-312-5245 46 | FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM

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OPEN DOORS {publisher’s page}

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and is truly the season of giving. It’s… the end of the calendar year, of course! Which means it’s time to start thinking about your tax returns. Of course, it’s also the holiday season, a time where giving is at front of mind. So in the spirit of both, Frontdoors Media is proud to bring you our 2017-18 Tax Credit Directory, a listing of nonprofits and educational organizations eligible for contributions that count as a dollar-fordollar match on your state income taxes. Tax credit contributions have become a critical resource for the nonprofit community, and a way to help others while helping your bottom line. The directory provides a good overview of how it works, but essentially, the state of Arizona provides several types of charitable contributions that are eligible for a credit on your state tax returns. Our special Tax Credit Directory provides you with information on several dozen organizations that are eligible for such contributions, and includes direct links

for giving. These organizations represent a broad spectrum of the philanthropic community, allowing you to choose exactly what type of impact your giving will have. The deadline for tax credit contributions is the April 17, 2018 state income tax filing deadline; however, if you contribute by the end of the year, you can also count those charitable contributions on your 2017 federal taxes as well. So it’s a great time of year to get in the giving spirit and support the many nonprofits in our community that are helping improve our quality of life. We’re especially pleased to partner with Eide Bailly on this special advertising section, and appreciate all they do to help direct resources to deserving nonprofits. The holidays are a time for giving. On behalf of the Frontdoors Media team, we hope that you and yours feel the love and warmth of the holiday season, and have a happy and joyful new year.

Andrea Andrea Tyler Evans PUBLISHER

@AndreaTEvans

DECEMBER 2017

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2017-18 Tax Credit Directory A Tax Season Giving Guide for Arizona presented by

It’s finally here, just in time for tax season! It’s our 2017-18 Tax Credit Directory, providing a key resource for Arizona residents looking to receive a dollar-for-dollar credit on their state income taxes while helping a broad spectrum of nonprofits. Our Tax Directory provides an overview of tax credits, how they work and why they are important, and includes listings from dozens of organizations across the tax credit categories. CLICK THIS LINK TO VIEW THE DIRECTORY! 48 | FRONTDOORSMEDIA.COM

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