Dear %contactInformalName%,

This Women’s History Month, we honor the visionary women who started it all: Lupe Esquer and Barbara Norton. In 1966, they saw neighbors in need and launched “Operation Grassroots,” planting the seeds of what would become Tempe Community Action Agency.

Their early efforts touched nearly every corner of community life with programs like youth after-school care, a dental clinic, and even a tortilla factory.

When the agency became an official nonprofit in 1971, its focus sharpened to hunger, poverty, health, and housing stability. Those priorities still guide us today as we serve more than 18,000 households in the East Valley each year.

Barbara and Lupe's leadership shaped a legacy of compassion, equity, and action. We carry their work forward every day.

On March 27, join us for the 20th Annual VICINITY—an evening of connection, community, and impact as we celebrate 60 years of serving our neighbors.

Through simple, immersive moments—like opening a food box or preparing for a night in our shelter—you’ll get a glimpse into the everyday realities many in our community face.

Enjoy delicious bites from local restaurants, meet great people, and experience an evening that gives back.

It’s eye-opening. It’s meaningful. And it’s a powerful reminder of why community matters.

Not long ago, Myron was sleeping at a bus stop and panhandling for food.

Today, he rides his bike nine miles to a job he loves and feels proud of the life he’s rebuilding. His journey began with one decision—to reach out to TCAA.

Read about Myron's amazing journey here

Food Pantry

Our largest need for volunteers is in our food pantry. Volunteering in the food pantry is fun and the best part is you pick your schedule! You can sign up for as many or as few shifts as you'd like. 

Meals on Wheels

Many of our Meals on Wheels volunteers leave in April for the summer. If this position interests you, we encourage you to shadow a driver now and get your paperwork going. This is a very rewarding experience as you are not only delivering nutritious meals to homebound seniors, you are making it possible for them to remain living in their home as long as possible.

Please email volunteer1@tempeaction.org for more information.

Your donation to TCAA, made through April 15th, may qualify for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit and could be applied to your 2025 Arizona taxes - feeding neighbors in need at no net cost to you. More information here.

$495 for single filers 

$987 for joint filers 

QCO Code: 20304

GIVE | VOLUNTEER | TAKE A TOUR

At Tempe Community Action Agency, we envision a society where every person has what they need to live a healthy, purposeful life.

It is our mission to eliminate poverty and advance equitable communities.

EIN: 86-0254820 | QCO Code: 20304

 Subscription Preferences