Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Building Bright Futures
Legal Name (if Different): Building Bright Futures
Also Known As: BBF
Mailing Address: 835 W Peoria Ave
City: Peoria
State: Arizona
Postal Code: 85345
Main Phone: (623) 487-8000
Main Fax: Not Applicable
Organization Website: https://www.brightfuturesaz.org/
Employer ID Number: 87-1018189
Organization Tax Status: Non-Profit 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: August 15, 2026
Requested Amount: $7,500

Project Title: Childcare Access and Family Stability Initiative
Project Description:

For many Arizona families, childcare is one of the biggest barriers to staying employed. Some parents earn too much to qualify for public assistance but still cannot afford the full cost of licensed care. When that happens, families may be forced to choose between paying for childcare, covering other basic needs, reducing work hours, or leaving the workforce altogether. Building Bright Futures was created in 2021 to help close that gap. We partner with licensed childcare providers and use a sliding-fee model based on each family’s income. Parents pay an amount they can reasonably afford, and Building Bright Futures helps cover the remaining cost. This allows children to stay in safe, consistent care while their parents continue working. Reliable childcare allows parents to maintain steady employment, increase their income over time, and build the financial stability needed to meet their children’s needs and eventually transition off assistance. Our support does not stop with tuition. Families also receive case management, regular check-ins, resource navigation, and referrals for needs such as food, housing, healthcare, financial education, and employment support. The goal is to address the challenges affecting the entire family, not just the immediate cost of childcare. Building Bright Futures is requesting $7,500 in general operating support to sustain childcare assistance, family support, provider coordination, and resource navigation. During the grant period, we expect to continue serving approximately 50 children, provide individualized support to participating families, maintain partnerships with licensed childcare providers, and help parents remain employed and progress toward financial independence. This request aligns with the Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation’s mission to improve the lives of children and young adults. By providing stable childcare and support for the whole family, Building Bright Futures gives children a stronger foundation to succeed and reach their full potential.

Total Project Budget: $250,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Awarded: John F. Long Foundation, $2,000; Kuhle Family Foundation, $15,000; Pending: Tohono O’odham, $20,000; Ak-Chin Indian Community, $15,000.

Project Duration: 12 Months (Continuous)
Geographical Area Served: Arizona (Primary Focus: Maricopa County)
Age Group To Be Served: Baby (0-2), Preschool (3-5), Children (6-11)

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Dr.
Contact First Name: Theresa
Contact Last Name: Christensen
Contact Title: Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Contact Phone: (623) 487-8000
Contact Email: grants@brightbeginningsaz.com