Let's Get Real
A few local companies who have done nothing but support us are the ones who will stand out in our hearts forever.
This might come off harsh but I am so sick of companies or people who don’t keep their word. Whether that be; locations promising you a great venue, working with others as a collaboration, to even a business not paying you as a sponsor. I have been blown away by the lack of professionalism PFF has had to experience.
You would think that being a small nonprofit in our community would protect us from the riff raff of bad business deals, but that is not the case.
I am of course not going to name names of those who have burned PFF but I will say it is very upsetting. My husband says, “you have to get everything in writing” and I see why. Over the past almost five years, the bullets we have had to dodge or things we have backed out of because they were a joke is appalling.
People say you always learn from every experience. What I can take away from those experiences that have left a bad taste in our mouth, is that not everyone is like that. When we do have an amazing company that keeps their word, goes above and beyond for us, we need to show them some love.
With the “bad” ones there are more good ones of course. A few local companies who have done nothing but support us are the ones who will stand out in our hearts forever. They are also successful in their own right and will last-unlike the faux companies/people.
So let’s show a little love to our rockstar companies:
I could probably go on and name a few more, but those are a hand full of the ones that have been a part of the PFF family for years or who have done more than we have asked of them. They are the ones who believed in us when we were a small barely existing nonprofit hoping to make a name for ourselves.
Thank you for your endless love and belief in our cause. If you do not know who these companies are I hope you will check them out!I don’t think any company intentionally was out to get us or cause the foundation unnecessary work, I just sometimes think people don’t know how to work with other businesses. The foundation exists solely from donations and company grants- we are still in business because of the companies listed above. We are a PUBLIC foundation, meaning we have to raise a certain amount and giveaway a certain amount. There are salaries, expenses, and bills to pay just like any other business.
Whether you are a for-profit or not for profit doing business with someone else - big or small, you must work just as hard as they are on the job. The foundation has had to put new rules and steps in place to protect us from phonys.
So lesson is and point of this post is to be respectful of all companies and people you want to collaborate with. Be upfront and honest on what you expect - and remember it is not personal it is business.
“Business opportunities are like buses, there’s always another one coming.”
– Richard Branson
Community Angels - Our Newest Initiative!
Community Angels, is a program that provides the family with physical needs to ensure a safe living environment in both the community and the home.
A peak into the Foundation's newest initiative!
Community Angels, is a program that provides the family with physical needs to ensure a safe living environment in both the community and the home.
When I first started the foundation I had NO idea how many different avenues we would be creating. People said that I shouldn’t call it “Pearce Family Foundation” because it was too broad- or that people would think we are a private nonprofit. I wanted to create something that wasn’t cause specific so that it would be the hub of all the different programs we assist with. And like they say, “trust your gut” and don’t let people talk you out of your dream.
Well, since that summer in 2013 we have created now 3 programs; Angels Around Us, Angel Pups and now (drumroll please) COMMUNITY ANGELS.
I am so excited to announce our brand new program, that helps families we have currently helped from our two grant programs with needs to make their home life better.
Home life meaning; new furniture or fixing a broken back porch, or even donating a new CAR to a family. The plan is to connect our donors with the families we have already helped who have additional needs. The foundation receives messages all the time about how people want to give back items they no longer need but do not know how. We have also been hearing how they want to help but they might not be able to afford to write a check to the foundation. So instead, now they can give their old bed frame or donate a car that is no longer being used to make a difference in a family’s life who has a child suffering from a chronic illness.
I have been blown away (well not really because we have amazing supporters) with the kindness our donors have shown our families again who still are having a tough time. Believe me, it is hard for me to not just go out and buy a new couch or new mattress for a family, which is why I believe our new initiative will help people connect even more to our family’s they have allowed us to pay a bill for.
I want the foundation to not just be a one stop shop for a family and for the families a part of our Angels Around Us or Angel Pups program, I want them to know that we truly care about them. Since the first family we have helped they are not just receiving a water bill payment or their rent paid for, they are becoming part of the family here at PFF.
Some things might need to change as we see what works and what doesn’t, but one thing I know for certain is that we won’t stop trying for these families.
We have already sent a survey out to our families and the most needs are; landscaping, car repair needs, cleaning services, and groceries. If you are a company that would be willing to help our families with a need like this with either the actual item or a donation to help us pay for a cleaning service please click here.
Thank you for always believing in us and for allowing us to make a difference in the Valley of the Sun!
David Shapiro
Get to know PFF AZ Hustler, David Shapiro.
Name: David Shapiro
Instagram handle: @d_shap001 – Company - @dialdavidshapiro
Profession/Title: Personal injury attorney – Owner of David Shapiro Law, PLLC
City you live in: Scottsdale, AZ
How do you know of PFF: Meghan Pearce Alfonso and I have been good friends since U of A!
What makes PFF special: PFF is an amazing organization. It works collaboratively with individuals, businesses and other charitable entities to make a huge difference in people’s lives. Unlike most charities, recipients of the PFF charity get to witness firsthand the generosity of the PFF donors/sponsors.
If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why: By far, the fashion show! It raises an amazing amount of money and features local designers with local models. It embodies the local spirit of PFF.
What is your favorite thing about AZ? Aside from the sunshine and golf, I love the tightness of this community. My wife Elizabeth and I are constantly amazed by how fast our community has glued together to take care of those who are less fortunate. PFF is a shining example of this!
What is something on your bucket list? I definitely want to go on an African safari and learn about innovative ways to protect all of the endangered species who live there!
What was your first job? Fry’s Food and Drug as a clerk.
Sunrise or sunset? AZ Sunset for sure!
Coffee or tea? Coffee
What/who inspires you? My wife inspires me with her work ethic and my sister with her refusal to let any physical disability stop her success. And of course, my clients who unfortunately have been badly hurt in a collision or wreck but refuse to give up on their life – these folks give me inspiration every single day to go fight for them.
What is a motto you live by? Be grateful for what you have.
What does a normal day look like for you? I wake up at 5:30 a.m., train from 6-7 a.m., get into my office, meet with clients, draft and edit motions, disclosure statements, perhaps take a deposition, grab a late lunch, go over the cases with my staff, update clients, take a late client or vendor meeting and get home around 7:30 p.m. to have dinner with my incredible wife Elizabeth and two pups, Moe and Harper.
What is one thing you can not live without? My family.
One thing you think every one needs to try? Try listening more and talking less.
Runway of Hope 2018
On May 11th 2018 we hosted our 4th Annual Runway of Hope fashion show.
On May 11th 2018 we hosted our 4th Annual Runway of Hope fashion show.
Prior to the show, we have hosted 3 incredibly successful fashion shows… so we had our bar set pretty high for our 4th! With that being said, we started by sitting down as a team and began to gather everything, brainstorm ideas, and set up all that we need in line to create an amazing show. Our Founder, Meghan, ran into Ashley from Ashley Paige Collective who then kindly offered to co-host the show with us; we knew with each new year, the show gets bigger and we could use all the additional help!
As we started locking in each detail to make the event come to life, we teamed up with some amazing people and companies to be involved! To start, we secured the venue with FABRIC in Tempe, beats by DJ Psycho Pat and locked in our amazing designers and stylists: B James LA styled by Weezy’s Playhouse, Frockify, Theo Doro, Wet Haute Couture styled by Braden Conwell, Chaos in Denm styled by Neyda Melina, Qmulative styled by #thesmartblondes, NYDJ styled by The Foxy Kat Stylist, and Rockin Street Wear styled by Beth Yohanny. We couldn’t believe how amazing the line up of designers were and the fashion couldn’t have gotten bigger and better from past years! Each model was glammed by The Sparkle Bar makeup and S&L Trends hair. All of which were introduced during the show by our gorgeous Emcee’s Katie White and former E! News reporter Kristina Guerrero (they were both pretty entertaining too ;) ).
Making the night as yummy as possible was True Food Kitchen with snacks, Crescent Crown Distributing on kindly donating alcohol as well as Postino Wine Café with wine and rosé. We were also thrilled to have Bumble as our Bubbles & Bites Sponsor giving each guest a little take away. To top of the event, each guest had a little something on their seat! Whether they were a GA seat, a VIP seat, or sat up in our Sky Box as a media influencer tasting moonshine tequila from Roger Clyne, a goody bag and Purely Sedona water awaited for each guest. Our goody bags were filled with incredible gifts ranging from Kendra Scott, Postino Wine Café, Nordstrom perfume, Barre3 tickets, and plenty of gift certificates to use around the valley!
As you can see, we had a lot of people involved in this years’ show and we are truly grateful for all the help we were gifted with! We learned a lot from this year’s show and created memories that our Foundation will carry for a life time. We were able to beat previous years with an outrageous earning of over $26,000 being directed partially into our Angel Pups program! Without the help of our supporters, families, friends, and partnering companies around the valley, we couldn’t even imagine a day where we get to write all that we just did and share the successful, fun, proud moments like our 4th Annual Runway of Hope! Now we are able to say “YES” to even more families and continue on with our mission to ‘being the bridge between the hospital and the home’. Cheers to another Runway of Hope in the books and Runway of Hope 2019… we’re ready for you!
Sincerely,
The Pearce Family Foundation
CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR PHOTOS CAPTURED HERE
Dakota Jeane Hilton
Get to know PFF AZ Hustler, Dakota Jeane Hilton.
Name: Dakota Jeane Hilton
Instagram handle: (I have a few!)Personal / stylist profile: @dakotajeane, Business profile: @frockify
Profession/Title: I wear way too many hats and I really should have only chosen one… but my titles include: Fashion Stylist / Owner of Frockify / Art Director / Fashion Designer / Political Campaign Manager / House Flipper & Home Designer / Musician
City you live in: Downtown PHX
How do you know of PFF: I had a retail store for Frockify last year and I was lucky enough to have Meghan walk through the door. She ended up buying an item and we chatted for a while. She told me about her great non-profit organization and we have been keeping in touch since then.
What makes PFF special: Phoenix really needed PFF. Phoenix is the 5th largest city in the United States, even though it doesn’t always feel that way. Due to our large population, there are inevitably many children with a life threatening illness and families need help during those trying times. PFF is there to help families in our city get back on their feet and provide hope that is so necessary.
If you have been to PFF events, tell us your favorite and why: I was honored to participate in the 4th annual Runway of Hope where I was able to showcase six looks down the runway. This is my favorite event because we were able to integrate the fashion community with PFF and do our part to contribute to the great cause Meghan is fighting for.
What is your favorite thing about AZ? Everything – the people, the dry air, the sunshine, the warmth, the freedom, the space… I lived in NYC for several years, which was amazing. One year in LA, which was great. But, there’s nothing like being home. There’s so much creative energy happening here right now and I love being a part of it.
What was your first job? I just turned 15 years old when I was offered my first job at the Steaming Bean (Durango, CO, where I lived until I was 16) as a barista. I worked in coffee for eight years before I got into fashion.
Sunrise of sunset? Sunrise in LA and NYC, sunset in PHX.
Coffee or tea? Coffee. At least 4 cups throughout the day. I enjoy green tea while I chow down on sushi, but otherwise I’m a huge coffee proponent.
What/who inspires you? So many people and things inspire me. One person who inspires me to work hard and be confident in all I do is my mom, Delina DiSanto. She’s currently running for US Congress and seeing her during this process has been incredible. I’m also very much inspired by my husband, Michael, who encourages me to live my dreams and (many) aspirations. In terms of fashion and styling, I’m inspired by rock and roll styles of the 60’s and 70’s.
What is a motto you live by? Stay busy, but always make in-person time for friends and family.
What is one thing you cannot live without? This is basically two things, two contrasting things… But, I cannot live without my personal time when I can be my most creative. I am much more creative when I’m in my own head and focused. I also cannot live without the people around me. I love my friends and family so much and I need time with them often.
One thing you think every one needs to try? Everyone needs to try and have at least 5 solid vintage pieces in their wardrobe. Wearing vintage always feels good because it’s sustainable, and also it transforms your confidence to new levels. My personal wardrobe is about 50% vintage. I love to style vintage in a fashionably relevant way, and it works well with new styles when you put things together correctly. This is why I got into styling – vintage makes my vision come alive.
Skye Lucking
Get to know PFF AZ Hustler, Skye Lucking.
Name: Skye Lucking
Instagram handle: (I have a few!) @youarecourageous - For my YouTube Channel, Courageous Creatives@skyelucking - For my art and mural work@joyfulgeometry - My modern art products company@prismagicbooks - My coloring book company (about to close up shop on this)
Profession/Title: Host of Courageous Creatives https://www.youtube.com/c/CourageousCreatives
Artist for Skye Lucking Art & Design www.skyelucking.com
Lead Designer - Joyful Geometry www.joyfulgeometry.com
How do you know of PFF: I do a Fashion Friday segment on my YouTube channel which does a LOT of features around what is happening at FABRIC. I saw your Instagram video about your 4th Annual Runway of Hope and have been following PFF after that!
What makes PFF special: I've followed PFF along and this is an easy question! I am a mother of an almost 4-year-old and could not imagine having to deal with a life threatening illness for him as well as worry about how to keep a household afloat. What an amazing organization you have!
What is something on your bucket list? 2 Things: 1) Attend a Ted Talk. 2) GIVE a Ted Talk! (It'd be about fear and love.)
Sunrise of sunset? Happy to see both. It means I'm alive!
Coffee or tea? Tea. (Trying hard...)
What/who inspires you? Creative people because it takes courage. Courageous people because it takes creativity."Promote what you love, rather than bashing what you hate/" - This is the guiding principal for my YouTube channel. You can see it in what I produce.
Oh The Places You Will Go
As another school year comes to an end, that means the Pearce Family Foundations’ interns are moving on.
“Oh the Places You Will Go”
-Dr. Seuss
As another school year comes to an end, that means the Pearce Family Foundations’ interns are moving on. Hard to believe that only being four years old we have said “hello and goodbye” to four amazing women. I feel beyond blessed to have worked with each one of them and watch them mature into strong, confident women ready to take on their next phase of life.
Over the past year and a half, the foundation has had Kourtnie Martin as our “Event Liaison” and Lindsay Cardoza as our “Family & Community Specialist”. -We felt fun titles would be better than “intern”…because as we all know they do a lot more than just intern.
Before the girls moved on either with the foundation or to new adventures, I wanted them to answer a few questions so that you could get to know them before they take over as Girl Bosses themselves.
Here is a little bio and interview from our event enthusiast, Kourtnie:
Name:
Kourtnie Martin
Instagram:
@kourtnie.renee
Where were you born:
Iowa City, IA
How old are you:
22
Where did you go to college?
Grand Canyon University
What was one of the best life lessons you learned in college?
I definitely learned how to handle tough situations better. I have had some hardships over the last four years and had to learn how to push through them and keep moving forward. This has made me so much stronger and shown me I can handle way more that I thought.
Do you have any regrets?
I don't regret anything. I'm a big believer in everything happens for a reason and each mistake I have made has taught me something and made me a better person.
How did you find out about the Pearce Family Foundation?
Facebook! I was looking for an internship and a family friend sent me Meghan's post!
What was one of your favorite moments at PFF?
I just love seeing the impact the foundation has on the families they help. The toy drive was really rewarding seeing the kids react to the donations.
My favorite event PFF held was…
Runway! I just love the fashion and the overall vibe of the night.
Name three of your favorite foods to eat:
Donuts, chocolate, and pasta
My favorite store to shop at is?
Anything online! I am not ashamed to say I have an online shopping addiction! Lol
Name one of your role models (can be alive or dead):
My grandfather. He was the smartest person I knew but was so humble and caring and always put others before himself. I always admired how calm he could stay in any situation and how strong he was even if he was hurting.
All time classic movie you love:
The Lion King. I have loved this movie since I was a kid and had definitely played a role in my Disney obsession!
Favorite Quote:
Be still. Short and sweet but holds a lot of meaning for me. It keeps me calm in stressful situations and reminds me to live in the moment. Time goes by really fast and I want to enjoy each moment, even the little things. I guess you could say it's my life motto!
I hope to be this in 5 years:
As cliche as it sounds I just hope to be in a happy place with a job I love, great friends, and my family.
Kourtnie will be staying on at the foundation as our Office Administrative Assistant. She will not only be with PFF on a daily basis but also helping with my father and his daily office needs. We are excited to see where the future will take us and glad she found her calling.
Here is a little bio and interview from our Northern Cali girl, Lindsay:
Name:
Lindsay Cardoza
Instagram:
@lindsaycardoza
Where were you born:
Walnut Creek, CA
How old are you:
22
Where did you go to college?
ASU
What made you choose that college?
I liked the big college atmosphere and the town of Tempe. My sister went to ASU as well so that was a bonus. I also liked the idea of going to college out of state and not really knowing anyone. It was a fresh start in a way.
What was one of the best life lessons you learned in college?
I really found my best friends in college, they genuinely care about me which was something I didn’t have in high school. I also have grown and matured in many areas of my life. At this point in my life I know what I want and what I deserve. I also have gained more confidence and self-awareness.
What was one of your favorite moments at PFF?
I loved working with the whole PFF team. It felt like we were a little family. It’s really amazing working with strong women who are passionate about what they do. Working with the girls, I was inspired daily. They always made me feel welcomed and cared for.
My favorite event PFF held was…
I loved all the fundraisers, but I really enjoyed the toy drive. The holiday season is my favorite time of the year and I loved being able to make our kids wishes come true. Moments like that put everything into perspective and help you focus on what is important in life.
Name three of your favorite foods to eat:
carne asada tacos, cheeseburgers and ice cream
If you were stuck in a room for a week and could only watch one TV SHOW it would be:
probably Friends or New Girl
My favorite store to shop at is?
Urban Outfitters (when I can afford it 😉)
Name one of your role models (can be alive or dead)
My dad, it is really inspiring seeing how much he has accomplished in his life despite having a rough childhood. Hardest working person I know!
Favorite Quote:
“Here’s to strong women, may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them”
Lindsay will be graduating soon and is deciding her next steps in the future. I wish her nothing but the best and that she knows she will always have a family here at PFF.
Cheers and congrats to both you girls, you helped when I needed you the most and you stayed when I had no one else. Sending you lots of good vibes and love
Xo
Meghan
Drop & Gimme 20 - Autism Awareness Month
Join us in celebration for Autism Awareness Month 2018 and please donate and support the thousands facing an autism diagnosis!
Of all the families apart of our PFF programs, several face the spectrum of Autism. Our first Angel Pups recipient has severe autism and we were thrilled to be able to financially assist a service dog for him so he can exercise, control his emotions, provide responsibility, give care, give comfort, and give him opportunity for his highest quality of life. This diagnosis and the families that have come to us who face this are so near and dear to PFF’s heart. There are so many families that ask for our help and apply for our grants and we need YOUR help to be able to tell them yes.
Nearly a century ago, April was dedicated nationwide to promote autism awareness, inclusion, and self determination for all. In these efforts, assurance was made for each and every person with autism to be provided with opportunities to achieve their highest quality of life. This year we want to go above and beyond simply promoting autism awareness but actively promote a PFF campaign in support of a close friend’s movement of Drop & Gimme 20.
Drop & Gimme 20 is a movement created by Jay Dallstream. Jay’s son is on the spectrum for autism and has collected the knowledge of around 1,000 children in Arizona are born daily on the spectrum. Jay committed last year to doing 1,000 push ups everyday in the month of April in support of those children and their families, and that is how Drop & Gimme 20 was born! This year we will be pushing this movement the extra to mile to really make an impact this month and collect donations for our families apart of our Angel Pups program. Each day we challenge YOU and the rest of our supporters to do 20 pushups and post at least once on social media and tag/challenge 5 others to join us!
Join us in celebration for Autism Awareness Month 2018 and please text GIMME20 to 50155 to donate and support the thousands facing an autism diagnosis!
This Looks Like the Start of a New Chapter!
In just a blink of an eye, there are so many new changes, additions, and updates that PFF has start to gone through and we couldn’t be more excited!
Can you believe it’s already April?
Yes, sounds so cliché but it is so appropriate for how we are feeling here at PFF. In just a blink of an eye, there are so many new changes, additions, and updates that PFF has start to gone through and we couldn’t be more excited!
To start things off...
this month PFF turns FOUR years old! Okay, wait. It’s seems like just yesterday we were starting things off and meeting our very first Angels Around Us family. Since then we have hosted over 20 huge events, expanded our board, took on a team, started Angel Pups and created long lasting memories. Going in PFF’s 4th year, so many things are changing around the office! We are MOVING. In the next couple of months, we will be taking the old office and moving somewhere new; this will be exciting and refreshing to start on a clean slate and continue to grow. Speaking of growing, we expanded two positions in the PFF team. Meet Hannah our Digital Marketing Specialist and Kourtnie our new Administrative Assistant! You will definitely be seeing Hannah around now and Kourtnie even more as she spent the last year with us as Event Liaison. We are excited to be expanding the PFF team and even reaching into our board. So many great things happening.
It’s always a little scary growing so fast but we are so excited and over joyed with all the success and growth that PFF is going through. We have made incredible new connections, partnered with amazing brands for upcoming events, and scored relationships that will help us give more back into the community.
So, it’s safe to say,
that many changes are amongst the horizon and we couldn’t be happier! We will also be featuring guest influencers on our blog here every month… so message us if you would be interested in a feature! We can’t wait for this 5th year of PFF and connecting with more of you.
What are some challenges you have faced recently and what are you doing to overcome them? Comment down below to share and let us know, we’re not the only ones that feel the urge to switch things up recently and head into a new chapter right!?
Beauty for Good Gala & PFF
Grab your best 1920's Great Gatsby attire and join us for a night at the Arizona Biltmore on April 14th.
Who doesn't love a theme?
Grab your best 1920's Great Gatsby attire and join us for a night at the Arizona Biltmore on April 14th. Champagne, feathers, music, and more will be a part of the 2nd Annual Beauty for Good Gala. Hosted by Mosharraffa Plastic Surgery, who has asked the Pearce Family Foundation to be one of their charitable partners.
There are four other nonprofits that will benefit at the Beauty for Good Gala including; The Phoenix Dream Center, Prevent Child Abuse Arizona, A 2nd Act, and Breast Reconstruction Awareness USA. The night is about having fun as well as a chance to introduce you to a few nonprofits that you may or may not have heard of. Each nonprofit is responsible to provide a raffle item valued at $1500-$2500.
What to wear?
Now that you know what the event is about and why the Pearce Family Foundation is a part of this great gala, let's figure out what you are going to wear. I would recommend googling 1920's and checking out this Pinterest board: Click Here.
The foundation has our own special code for everyone to receive $20 off tickets- PFF
Get your ticket tonight for a fun themed night with raffles, and a chance to learn about a variety of nonprofits!
xoMeghan
Investing In Yourself
A few weeks ago I (Meghan) decided to attend The Workshop hosted by the Bloguettes.
What do you do to make yourself better?
A few weeks ago I (Meghan) decided to attend The Workshop hosted by the Bloguettes.
Prior to the workshop, I was asked by a friend to be a part of a Bumble Bizz panel. The group of women who I sat on the panel with were entrepreneurs, bloggers, fitness studio owners, and then myself. That night I met owners Sakura and Lorena. It was a fun panel to be on with other #girlbosses and to hear what kinds of struggles they go through or have gone through and how they got to where they are today.
I felt an instant connection to the women of the Bloguettes and wanted to learn how they had grown so fast in just a few years. It seemed like perfect timing to attend their Workshop held at Events on Jackson in early February.
During the two day event there were high powered CEO's from all walks of life and different careers, there to teach us how to be our best selves. They were there to teach us in different classes what we felt we needed to know. I took a course on how to "write a newsletter people give a f**k about" as well as how to "how to brand yourself in the digital age". From the adorable coffee truck in the morning (Gypsy Cup) to the braid bar at lunch by Hainsworth Hair & Co. There were even swings next to the lunch tables! It felt like we were at Disneyland-but for entrepreneurs.
No matter what time of day it was, you saw women mingling and talking to one another. Either about what they do for a living what they were hoping to get out of the event. Being able to walk up to anyone and instantly make a new friend is my favorite type of event. We all wanted to "learn the secret sauce" so whether we were from the same city or from out of town we wanted one thing. I met two girls from Canada, one sweet photographer from Dallas and a few local girls who all had one thing in common, to better themselves.
To have a reach like the Bloguettes do, it is impressive and something to not ignore.
What I learned...
We all were there to learn and absorb as much knowledge and information as we possibly could. I love our city and to see how every little detail was considered was inspiring. It makes me proud to be a Phoenician and that even us desert dwellers can host a great event...well the Bloguettes can at at least ;)
Having picked up some new tricks for PFF as well as for myself personally, I feel completed by the event. I believe we all need to remember to take those days and focus on you. Never forget what makes you jump out of bed in the morning and that it is okay to ask for help!
xoMeghan
Angels Around Us Committee
If you’re looking for a way to be involved with the Pearce Family foundation, we have a new request, we need more people to sit on our Angels Around Us committee.
Want to Help Families in AZ?
People always ask how they can help the Pearce Family Foundation, and my typical response is that we need help at events-so to volunteer would help. Today though, we have a new request, we need more people to sit on our Angels Around Us committee.
What is the Angels Around Us Committee?
Well, this is a group of a variety of people who look over the applications we receive from Phoenix Children's Hospital, Banner Cardon Children's Hospital and word of mouth of people needing help.
What does it mean to be on this Committee?
Honestly, not a lot. Whenever the foundation receives an application we send it to the committee and between those people they decide who will contact the family to find out what is going on. The Pearce Family Foundation receives on average about 8 applications a month, so it will take an hour out of your day maybe a week.
Is it Hard?
No, but it can be emotional hearing what these families are going through and that PFF cannot always help every time. You will read about families like yours and mine who have no where else to turn and if we don't help or another nonprofit assist they might be on the streets. BUT don't worry we always figure out a way to get them back on track.
Qualifications
Have a computer and an email
Work in a field that you understand medical conditions or in finance
Believe in PFF
Want to be a part of the decision making on who we assist
Can call families and ask questions on how they are in a hard financial state
Be available to the Pearce Family Foundation if we have questions
If you are interested and want to help us continue to make a difference please email Meghan at meghan@pfffarizona.com xo
A Note from the Roberts
Last year (2017) we helped pay for the remaining balance needed for their son to receive a service dog. Teddy helps with day to day tasks for Devin and is not only his service dog, but his best friend.
The other day the foundation had sent out an email. We emailed a few of our families who are a part of our Angels Around Us and Angel Pups program. We asked them to be a part of our blog and to help share their experience with PFF.
There are some families we can just count on and one of those are the Roberts family. Paige (mom) is always willing to send me pictures of her son Devin and their service dog Teddy. Last year (2017) we helped pay for the remaining balance needed for their son to receive a service dog. Teddy helps with day to day tasks for Devin and is not only his service dog, but his best friend.
Here is the mom's answers to our questions:
Name: Devin Roberts (Paige and Patrick Roberts- Mom and Dad)
How you know of PFF: Elizabeth Ayers- Cluff told me about PFF almost 2 yrs ago, their family was a friend of Meghan who she met while working at Phoenix Children's Hospital.
What makes PFF special: PFF is an amazing organization that has many different facets. It is so special for families and their kiddos in need. The foundation makes dreams come true for special need children with their Angel Pups program. PFF grants a portion of the money needed to attain a service dog, and that is life changing for these kids. They provide assistance for many families in times of crisis, when chronic medical issues plague their family and weigh them down financially and emotionally.
The founder, Meghan, is so invested in this organization and is constantly spreading the word and raising money and generating resources to help families in need. This is an outstanding organization that Phoenix, Az should be proud to have as part of their city.
#aboveandbeyondforthekiddos
-Paige
Interns & Assistants
When I started the Pearce Family Foundation it did not occur to me that I (Meghan) would need to hire anyone. Why would I need an assistant? I can handle everything...UMM NOT (lol) since starting the foundation I have been fortunate to have now had 5 1/2 interns.First I had my sister Jessica Pearce help me with some of the first events (the Zebulon Pearce monument and Brew Something that Matters). I was so thankful Jess wanted to help since I was taking on a huge new business venture. Then the beautiful and smart Kylie Ray came to our PFF family after one of my good friends introduced us and it was a true blessing. Kylie ended up working with me for over 18 months and is one of the hardest working women I know.The next wonderful assistant/intern was Kylie Mudd who I met through Kylie 1 and I was again so thankful for her to step in when I needed her help the most. She was there during my wedding months and was my voice of reason when I thought I was going to loose it. (oh and I promise I do not hire just girls named Kylie).Then after I saw how fast we were growing and that I needed help at all times I found two amazing girls. Lindsay Cardoza and Kourtnie Martin became new team members of PFF and worked with me every week on every upcoming event. Neither of these girls were receiving class credit-they just did it out of the goodness of their heart. Kourtnie is studying entrepreneurial courses at GCU and now wants to work for PFF after college (YIPPIE). Lindsay in addition to all of her time working without credit hours is now receieving 12 credit hours to help her graduate in May.The moral of this story is that us #girlbosses need help and we need to ask for it. I wish I could handle every email, every family application, and every event but I can't. I am fortunate to have met like minded women who believe in our mission and want to learn from ME.So ladies- let others help you and don't forget that we are teachers in a way and should share our knowledge! xoxoMeghan 
It is 2018, but lets go Back
Wow can you believe it is already 2018?! The Pearce Family Foundation will be coming up to our 5th birthday (of being founded in July 2013). What was an idea of sorts to "create a foundation" actually became a reality. In conclusion to the people who believed in our cause.A few name changes of the grant programs and figuring out what works regarding bill payments we are finally at a point where it just, works. I remember having a lot of gut feelings where I wasn't sure if something was going to happen and miraculously it just did. I wanted to do a little #tbt of where we first started to where we are now....
2013-2014
- Zebulon Pearce Monument- never having built a statue before or knowing where to begin this was for sure a challenge. The City of Mesa gave me the go ahead and then it was on to find an artist who wasn't going to charge a nonprofit hundreds and thousands of dollars. Thankfully Jeff Carol Davenport came into my life and after receiving permission from Pete Coors himself that we could use their trademarked logo we were ready to build. Raising almost $40,000, we now have a statue of a legend. Zebulon Pearce the founder of our family's success and why Coors beer came to the Southwest.
- Angels Around Us Grant was born- since PFF has started we have helped 70 families. Assisting with bills ranging from; car transmission payments, mortgage/rent, utilities, new furniture, and even service dogs. Donating out $55,989 since we have started!
2014-2015
Events We Hosted:
- Brew Something that Matters- beer taping party we hosted at O.H.S.O. Brewery twoyears in a row. Together raised about $15,000
- Hula's Modern Tiki Charity of the Month during June 2014, we raised over $3,000 in just 4 days. On every Monday 20% of bill would come back to PFF. In addition to the donation from the restaurant we hosted a variety of events each week! The image below is of Randall Hedden after he painted a beautiful painting of an angel.
- National Bikini Day Party at Shop Pepper in Old Town- F0od trucks, bikinis by GreenLee Swim and drinks during a hot summer day!
- Clays for a Cause- First annual sporting clay tournament, raised over $13,000 our first year
2015-2016
- Spring Bark- To kick off this year we decided to host a dog friendly event at Boulder Falls Pet Resort and raised over $5,000.
- Runway of Hope- Hosted at the Coors beer warehouse in downtown Phoenix the event proved you can hold a fashion show anywhere. A variety of local boutiques from around the Valley walked the runway and helped raise over $17,000!
While, I could keep going on and on about all of the events we have hosted or been beneficiary recipients of I won't.Due to the success we have had by the past events we wanted to host more. We have had three more Clays for a Cause events, two more fashion shows, a yoga event, two Kendra Scott jewelry parties, a barre3 event, a few holiday parties and three toy drives. Dang we are busy ;) Thank you for your endless support and we are excited to see what 2018 holds for usxo,Meghan
Toys Ahoy with Barre3
Fitness, Food, all for a Great Cause!The holidays are here and what that means for PFF, is that we have our annual Toys Ahoy drive. Instead of boats at OdySea in The Desert this year, we had the community from Barre3 out on the plaza supporting our drive. Owner Karie Johnson is not only beautiful but she is very charitable. We have been wanting to host an event together and the idea of doing a fitness event seemed effortless. When I told her about the toy drive that we host she immediately wanted to step in. The Barre3 tribe was determined to help us make all of our family wishes come true because they believe in our cause.The barre3 studios (both PV & NS) had Angel Trees in their lobby with over 90 wish lists on them. Our families hoped that their wishes would be granted by the barre3 angels. And guess what....they were. ALL OF THEM!
On Sunday we were the beneficiary charity of Impact + Giveback with b3 at OdySea. Over 100 people came to the event to deliver toys and to workout in the plaza. The members met a few of the family's they bought toys for. It was a perfect ending to a great year. We are so grateful to everyone who support our families. 
see you next year! Happy Holidaysxo Meghan
We Have a BLOG!
Hello, Hi, Hola, Welcome...PFF has a blog!! After going through a few websites the foundation has finally decided to document all of the fun, different, unique, and special things we do here at the Pearce Family Foundation. Time to time we might have a guest writer- say one of our families we have helped or a special donor but most likely it will be from CEO & Founder Meghan Alfonso. ****************************************************************************************************************** Wow isn't it amazing how fast time goes by. When we were younger we wished time would hurry up and that we would be 16 so we could drive or that we would turn 18 so we could go to college. Then it was I cannot wait until I am 21...and now it is like, "wait it's my birthday again or Christmas is less than a month away". Time... it is something we can never get back but is monumental in decision making. I have been the CEO of the Pearce Family Foundation (PFF) for over 1,600 days and it feels like just yesterday when I got the guts to start a nonprofit. That day in July of 2013 the timing could not have been more perfect. I was jobless, could barely make my $1,000 rent, and was lost. I had worked at other nonprofits and after being beaten down too many times I just up and quit a job I thought I was going to be at until I was old and gray.Thankfully I swallowed my fear and followed my dreams of being my own boss. Living on my own time and not letting others tell me what I had to do and what my weekend plans were is something I hope to never loose. I will tell you that I work harder and longer hours now than I ever did before, but I am the happiest I have ever been.This will be a place to voice my opinion on events throughout Scottsdale and Phoenix as well as to give an inside look on what goes on at PFF. We are a grassroots nonprofit that believes in being the "life savers" behind the curtains. We are not saving cancer or doing any research but we are keeping families at their home and hopefully out of the hospital. The families we help sometimes do not have "time" on their side and needs someone to step in...which is where we come inWelcome and I hope you enjoy, xoMeghan PFF Angel