2024 Spring Charity Partner

We are beyond excited to announce our charity partner with local Ahwatukee resident Brandon Riggs, and his charity, “My Special World.” His non-profit is a beacon of hope and empowerment for children with special needs.” Brandon is an energetic and empathetic advocate,” says LUA board President, Maria Reyes-Smith. “We met Brandon back in November at our Light Up Ahwatukee Holiday Festival and haven’t stopped thinking about him and his organization since. His nonprofit represents a profound commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and celebration of children with special needs and embraces all classmates who might be different. He reflects everything our board wishes to promote and more, says Reyes-Smith.” 

My Special World offers children a diverse array of activities aimed at fostering growth, development, and self-confidence while building self-esteem and showcasing dancing, storytelling, and other talents. For more information regarding Brandon and My Special World, visit https://myspecialworld.org/.

Charity Application.

With our newly named organization, Light Up Ahwatukee, it allows us to support many different local charities, not only for our two mainstay events, but we also look forward to many more opportunities to raise money and hold additional events and fundraisers throughout the year.

For over 25 years our 501c3 organization has raised funds to “Light Up Ahwatukee” with the Million White Lights Display along Chandler Boulevard during the holiday season. Each year, additional monies raised are donated back to the community to our partner charities. In previous years, Kyrene Foundation, Kiwanis, Girls Rule Foundation, The Mellonhead Foundation, Y OPAS, Lights, Camera, Action, Armer Foundation and most recently Stories of Hope have been recipients.

The Light Up Ahwatukee Committee will evaluate each applicant and, if your group/organization is selected, a representative
may be asked to make a brief presentation to our Board and committee.

Please fill out the below form:

This form is to be completed in its entirety by a steering member, director or principal
of the charitable organization before selection can be completed.

Light Up Ahwatukee will distribute a portion of the proceeds of the year’s events to each of the chosen charities in proportion to the contributions by the charities. Such contributions include number of volunteers at each event, total dollar amount of sponsor donation assistance on the event, marketing and more.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact info@lightupahwatukee.org.

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