PHOENIX, AZ (July 1, 2026) — For 30 years, Catholic Education Arizona (CEA) has transformed the lives of underserved, disabled, and foster children in our communities. Since its inception, the organization has raised $403 million and provided more than 165,000 scholarships, helping families access a quality education for their children. For these students, that opportunity is a lifelong gift—one that inspires hope and opens doors for the future.

For these families, this support goes far beyond philanthropy; it is the foundation for their children’s future. “You helped us fulfill a dream to give our children a good education and guide them on the right path,” shared Sarah, parent of a scholarship recipient.

Individuals

Through the Private Education Tax Credits, Arizona taxpayers can redirect their tax dollars to CEA to fund tuition scholarships for underserved students attending a Diocese of Phoenix Catholic School. This allows taxpayers to support a cause that aligns with their values, at no additional cost.

Nancy Padberg, MBA, President and CEO, remarked on this milestone, “I particularly enjoy when we receive thank you notes from the students and they share how they will become a teacher, a veterinarian, or a paleontologist. We know we are making dreams come true! We are grateful for the individual tax credits, corporate tax credits, and those who have given with their IRAs, DAFs, and legacy gifts!”

A Catholic education supports children in ways that extend beyond academic excellence, fostering a community where neighbors care for one another. In these ways, CEA is strengthening communities and serving society far beyond the classroom.

Corporations

Businesses also play a pivotal role, with the opportunity to redirect up to 100% of their Arizona tax liability to CEA through the Arizona Low-Income and Disabled/Displaced Corporate Tax Credits. GCU, Cigna, APS, and FT Media are just some of the companies that choose to make a difference in educating underserved, disabled, and foster students.

“One of our core values as a company is ‘Start with Heart,’” said Phillippe Lord, Chief Executive Officer of Meritage Homes. “We’re always looking for ways to give back in our communities. We’re proud to contribute to Catholic Education Arizona to support families and students in need in our local area.”

Traditional Donations

CEA’s philanthropic division, Changing Lives with Legacy, accepts traditional donations, gifts from IRAs and DAFs (Donor-Advised Funds), and legacy gifts. Through this generosity, children can be supported for generations to come, attending quality schools with results that speak for themselves:

  • 99% graduation rate
  • 96% matriculation to higher education, trade school, or enter military service
  • 1000s of hours of community service conducted annually

Your generosity can empower families to access a life-changing education. To make an impact today, visit ceaz.org or call (602) 218-6542 to learn how you can help transform a child’s future.

Contact: Debra Preach, Chief Operating Officer
Catholic Education Arizona
dpreach@ceaz.org
(602)-218-6542

Catholic Education Arizona is an IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization and has never accepted gifts designated for individuals. Per state law, a school tuition organization cannot award, restrict, or reserve scholarships solely on the basis of donor recommendation. A taxpayer may not claim a tax credit if the taxpayer agrees to swap donations with another taxpayer to benefit either taxpayer’s own dependent.