United Way of Northern Arizona secures funding for Holbrook Teen Center

United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) is proud to announce it has received a $150,000 grant from Wellpoint, a leading healthcare company, to support the transformation of a former retail space in Holbrook into a teen center.

The center is being developed by Grow Arizona Workforce Network, a local nonprofit focused on workforce readiness and youth empowerment.

UWNA has been working to help secure funding for close to a year and is thrilled by the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the Wellpoint team in supporting this new service.

From the desk of:

Liz Archuleta

President & CEO

“We believe in the power of strong communities, and this project reflects our commitment to helping young people access the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive,” Wellpoint’s Marketing Director Tara Kimbell told me recently. “From career training and educational planning to mentorship and emotional support, this center will be a safe and inspiring place where teens can build confidence, learn valuable skills, and plan for a successful future.”

Grow Arizona, which is led by Co-CEOs Kathleen Smith, the mayor of Holbrook, and Linda Kor, managing editor of The Painted Desert Tribune, had already identified a site for the center, a building on West Hopi Street, which is being donated by Brian Gardner, the mayor’s brother.

The project stems from a youth-led mental health survey conducted two years ago through a UWNA-supported initiative, which revealed a strong desire among teens in the region for a safe, inclusive space they could call their own.

At the same time, Grow Arizona was planning to establish a dedicated facility to serve as both a teen center and a workforce development hub. Their proposal perfectly aligned with our number one priority – our youth – and we were determined to help.

There will be a renovation kickoff celebration today, June 13th, at 11 am at the property (1002 West Hopi Drive) to mark the beginning of construction and honor the collective efforts driving this transformative project and the public is invited!

The teen center is a true collaborative effort. In addition to Wellpoint’s financial support and the donation of the building by Mr. Gardner, Arizona State Contracting has pledged to contribute its services at cost to make the vision of the center a reality.

Thanks to Wellpoint’s investment and the work of Grow Arizona, we’re removing barriers and creating opportunities for our youth to grow, connect, and thrive.

View as Webpage

UNITED WAY OF NORTHERN ARIZONA

1515 E. Cedar Ave. Suite D-1 Flagstaff, AZ 86004

928-773-9813 nazunitedway.org

STAY CONNECTED

Post navigation