One West Valley organization is making it a mission to bring about positive transformations while supporting communities in need. The West Valley Mavericks Foundation (WestValleyMavericksFoundation.org) is a philanthropic group that aims to raise money for children and families in need. It is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization made up of businesses and community leaders committed to shaping and supporting the area through charitable events.
The Mavericks' Mission
Mavericks board member Mark James shares that the Mavericks have a bold mission.
“We aim to enhance the communities in the West Valley and create a better future for all. We accomplish this by advancing four critical pillars: charity, community, culture, and commerce.”
James, who chose to stay in the West Valley after retiring from the U.S. Air Force, has been part of the Mavericks for four years. “I’ve been wowed by the area's growth and potential, and I am passionate about giving back in any way I can so I can continue making it an incredible place to live, work, and raise a family.”
A Driving Force in the West Valley
Over the years, the Mavericks have established themselves as a driving force behind positive community support by fostering a culture of giving, promoting cultural events, and creating a prosperous area for years to come. In 2023, the West Valley Mavericks gave $600,000 to 100 local organizations, and since their inception in 2012, they have given more than $2 million to area organizations.
Each year, the Mavericks raise funds through hosting four major events:
- The Roundup is the ultimate food truck party extravaganza that includes live music, kids’ zones, a huge VIP pavilion, and more than 75 of the best food trucks in Arizona all in one place—the Goodyear Ballpark. This event does not have any entrance fees associated with it, and is fun for the whole family. This year's Roundup is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, from 4 to 10 p.m. VIP tickets are $150 and include premium parking, a private tasting area, and gourmet small plates from the VIP restaurant sponsor.
- The Maverick is a VIP golf event topped off with an outdoor “Dinner on the Green.” Lunch, top-of-the-line tournament apparel, great swag, 18 holes of golf, and complimentary beverages and snacks make this a great golf day. Then, guests are invited for an evening of food, silent and live auctions, and a moonlight after-party. The Maverick Golf tournament takes place each May.
- The Shindig is a one-of-a-kind VIP concert experience that will transport you straight into the heart of country music. This event supports fantastic charities in the West Valley, including Phoenix Children’s. The next event is on March 1, 2025, from 6 to 10 p.m.
- The Patriot All-America Invitational is a bowl-like championship for top collegiate golfers from all NCAA divisions named to the PING All-American teams and invited members of the United States Service Academies. Throughout the event, each golfer carries a golf bag donated by PING, embroidered with the name of a fallen or severely injured military hero. After the event, the bags are presented to each golfer’s college, where the bags are auctioned, and the proceeds raised are donated to the Folds of Honor Foundation, which provides educational scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service members. The next event occurs at the end of December at The Wigwam Golf Resort in Litchfield Park.
The West Valley is the best place to live, work, and do business!