The Arizona Daily Star Sportsmen’s Fund has successfully raised over $253,000 to provide summer camp scholarships for children from low-income households and active military families in Southern Arizona. This initiative allows local youths to attend various camps, including weeklong programs at the YMCA, Scouting America, and Girl Scouts, as well as specialized overnight experiences at Camp Tatiyee for children with special needs.
This year marks an exciting expansion for the fund, which has introduced scholarships for students from Flowing Wells to attend the overnight Sky School camp on Mt. Lemmon. The organization plans to further enhance its partnership with Sky School in 2026, aiming to support additional children from Title 1 schools.
Since its inception in 1947, the Sportsmen’s Fund has played a crucial role in sending more than 44,800 children to overnight camps, showcasing its commitment to youth development in the region. The fund has garnered 1,038 donations totaling $253,673.97, with $256,252 already allocated to send 423 children to camp this year.
Tax Benefits for Donors
Donations to the Arizona Daily Star Sportsmen’s Fund Send a Kid to Camp are eligible for the Arizona tax credit for contributions to qualifying charitable organizations. The fund’s code is 20450, allowing joint Arizona filers to contribute up to $987 for the 2025 tax year, while other filers can donate up to $495. The fund’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) is 86-6053274, which is necessary for certain fund transfers.
Support for the fund has been robust, with recent notable contributions including a $10,000 donation from Jack L. Alexander and various amounts from other donors. The list of contributions demonstrates a strong community commitment to aid children in need.
How to Contribute
For those interested in supporting this cause, contributions are welcome throughout the year. Donations can be made via credit card at azsendakidtocamp.org or by sending checks payable to the Sportsmen’s Fund at P.O. Box 16141, Tucson, AZ 85732-6141.
Individuals aged 70½ or older with savings in an IRA may have the opportunity to give directly from their accounts, potentially allowing them to deduct it as a Qualifying Charitable Distribution on their tax return. It is advisable for these individuals to consult their tax advisers for more details regarding this option.
The Arizona Daily Star Sportsmen’s Fund continues to demonstrate its efficiency and commitment, with 97 cents of every dollar raised directly benefiting children attending camp. As one of Arizona’s oldest 501(c)(3) charities, it remains dedicated to enriching the lives of children in the community. For more information, interested parties can contact Debbie Kornmiller at 520-954-3139 or via email at [email protected].