AZ Cardinals Support Our Youth Through Exciting Initiatives

    Photo Credit: AZ Cardinals

    Written By: Ximena Hernández

    The Arizona Cardinals are one of the oldest franchises in the NFL with more than 100 years of existence. It began in Chicago, then in St. Louis, and in 1988 they arrived in Arizona. They have since settled and formed very important ties with the state’s communities. Michael Bidwill represents the third Bidwill generation to operate the team.

    Today, Michael is the main driving force of the organization and a leader in our community. Under his influence, the Cards have created many initiatives with positive impact.

    Photo Credit: AZ Cardinals

    “It’s very important for us to be a strong leader and give back. We live here. We want to see our communities thrive. We know we can make a difference, and so we put a lot of effort into that,” Bidwill added.

    This organization prioritize their support for Hispanics in many ways. One is showcasing 60 Latino-owned businesses on their website during Hispanic Heritage Month.
    In addition they also collaborate with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation to celebrate Latino/ Hispanic excellence.

    According to Pamela Vigil, the principal of Bernard Black School in South Phoenix, 70% of the student body is Hispanic, and the Cardinals’ support is crucial to the children’s education. “We were able to use the money from a sizable donation we got a few years ago to buy the necessary supplies for the kids. Items included playground equipment, basketballs, soccer balls, and jump ropes”.

    Photo Credit: AZ Cardinals

    Taking local school children to Washington, D.C., through the Civics Matters program in collaboration with the Close-Up Foundation, is another project the team started.

    Valentina Rosales, a junior at Franklin Police and Fire High School, is one of the scholars who benefited from this trip. She had a chance to visit Washington, D.C. and gain deeper understanding of our nation’s history and culture. “This journey had great impact in my life. One experience I will never forget.”

    Make sure to follow & cheer for your local NFL team every chance you get. They are a high value organization that supports our local Latino community.