ACF of Cochise

Since 1998, the Arizona Community Foundation of Cochise has supported local donors, community members, nonprofits, and students with the passion and expertise that drive effective, long-lasting impact.

Cochise

Serving Southeast Arizona

This regional office focuses on mobilizing enduring philanthropy for those in southeast Arizona. We are staffed with people who reside in and are passionate for these communities. With back-office support from our central office, ACF of Cochise can focus on community building and local donor development.

Give now

Support southeastern Arizona communities through a gift to one of our local funds.

Establish a Fund

One of the best ways to invest locally is to start a charitable fund. You can get started in as little as one meeting with Regional Director Colleen Iuliucci.

One of the best ways to invest locally is to start a charitable fund. You can get started in as little as one meeting with Regional Director Colleen Iuliucci.

Nonprofit Fundholder Highlight

Supporting Youth Through STEM Education

Students hold a snake in a classroom

409

individuals volunteered in 2022-2023

4,118

volunteer hours in 2022-2023

1,886

students directly served in Cochise County through SARSEF programs in the 2023-2024 school year

Founded in 1955, Southern Arizona Research, Science, and Engineering Foundation (SARSEF) creates opportunities for pre-K through high school students to recognize themselves as the scientists and engineers they truly are. SARSEF’s mission is to create Arizona’s future critical thinkers and problem solvers through science and engineering, because the skills gained from engaging authentically with these subjects are valuable no matter their career path.

There are rewarding science and engineering career paths in Arizona with many open positions. And yet, not all Arizona students have equal access to a quality science education. With a student-centered focus, SARSEF sustainably develops and grows opportunities in science education that are equitable, accessible, and innovative.

Programs include outreach and workshops that support students and their teachers and parents, activities that explore topics within science and engineering, and competitions, including a Southern Arizona Science and Engineering Fair that showcases the work of over 5,000 students annually.

The reach of SARSEF is statewide with the largest footprint in southern Arizona. Much like the Arizona Community Foundation, SARSEF believes in the power of partnership. By working closely with ACF, SARSEF has been able to connect with community in meaningful and intentional ways that further invest in all communities in Arizona.

In 2021, SARSEF created the Southern Arizona Research Science and Engineering Fund, held at Arizona Community Foundation. This fund helps SARSEF with the day-to-day operations to ensure the programmatic work of SARSEF is front and center for students. ACF also provides SARSEF with access to a thoughtful network of supportive philanthropists.

Through this and other partnerships, SARSEF stays informed of the unique assets and needs of individual communities, working together towards the goal of all students having the opportunity and resources to pose and answer testable questions and to wonder about the world around them.

Through January 2025, a new or increased contribution to SARSEF will be qualified for a $1 for every $2 raised through generous match from the Connie Hillman Family Foundation.

Photo provided by SARSEF.

Arizona Community Foundation has been an invaluable supporter to SARSEF as a connector to community and a collaborator for STEM education.

Julie Euber

Chief Executive Officer

For Nonprofits

Grants are available year-round for nonprofits serving southeast Arizona.

Local Leadership

ACF of Cochise is guided by local community members who enhance our work.

Community Funds

Mountain range near Patagonia.

Patagonia

There are multiple giving options to support Patagonia and eastern Santa Cruz County. This community also offers an annual competitive grant cycle to fund local organizations.

mountains near Douglas

Douglas

The Douglas Area Community Fund provides a permanent source of funding in support of youth programs, leadership development, and entrepreneurialism throughout the Douglas area.

Sunrise over a vineyard in Willcox.

Northern Cochise

Grants from the Northern Cochise Community Fund support youth, leadership, culture, and entrepreneurship in the geographic areas of Willcox, Bonita, Bowie, San Simon, Cochise, Dos Cabezas, Dragoon and Pearce/Sunsites.