"I care deeply about Arizona's future," Karrin says. "Supporting notMYkid is another way to make sure the next generation has the support they need to succeed."
For 25 years, notMYkid has provided life-changing mental health support, addiction prevention, and intervention programs for Arizona youth. Now, as the organization marks a milestone year, two powerhouse women—Karrin Taylor Robson and Sara Ward—are leading the charge.
“When you’re asked to help and you can, you just do it,” Karrin said.
And that’s exactly what she and Sara are doing. As Co-Chairs of notMYkid’s 25th Anniversary Gala, they’re also spearheading a $5 million Legacy Campaign to expand services, retire debt, and ensure the organization’s future.
For Sara Ward, a respected business leader and philanthropist, the cause is just as personal. With a track record of serving on 25+ nonprofit boards, her deep commitment to Arizona’s youth is fueling the fundraising success behind this transformational effort.
“Sara is relentless in making sure we have the resources to continue changing lives for years to come,” said notMYkid co-founder Debbie Moak.
At the heart of this effort is an urgent reality: Arizona’s kids are struggling.
- 88% of youth who participated in notMYkid programs reported they would not vape if offered, thanks to the education they received.
- The average age a child first experiments with drugs is just 12 years old—often before parents even suspect a problem.
- 1 in 3 teens struggles with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, yet many suffer in silence without access to proper care.
- Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among Arizona youth aged 10-24.
These numbers highlight the critical need for prevention, education, and early intervention—the foundation of notMYkid’s mission.
“Our kids are suffering today at a rate that’s unacceptable,” Karrin said. “Childhoods are being cut short before they’ve even begun.”
Since founding notMYkid 25 years ago, Debbie and Steve Moak have built a lifeline for more than three million youth and families. As they prepare to retire, they leave behind a legacy of hope, resilience, and action—one that Karrin and Sara are determined to continue.
“Steve and Debbie took a challenge in their own home and turned it into a lifeline for Arizona families,” Sara said.
With a $1 million fundraising goal, every ticket, sponsorship, and donation directly supports notMYkid’s mission expanding critical services.
notmykid25.givesmart.com