2025 Annual Impact Report
Making the greater Flagstaff community a better place for all!
1
The Forest Highlands Foundation is the unique philanthropic vehicle representing the Forest Highlands
community in its support of non-profits serving the greater Flagstaff area. Now in its twenty-sixth year, the Foundation was originally established by Forest Highlands residents, and is run, staffed, and funded by volunteers from our community.
Mission Statement
The Forest Highlands Foundation exists to make the greater Flagstaff community a better place for all by supporting effective local charitable organizations. The Foundation encourages, coordinates, and leverages the generosity of Forest Highlands members to create identifiable impact on the needs of the community, with primary emphasis on human services for people at risk and programs focused on breaking the chain of poverty in future generations.
Officers & Board Members Forest Highlands Foundation operates with term limits for Officers and Board members in a way that ensures continuity but balances it with the regular involvement of new people and fresh ideas.
2025 Forest Highlands Foundation Board
Officers Chair - Howard Nute Vice-Chair - Michelle Arena
Treasurer - Teri Schwab Secretary - Vickie Selzer Immediate Past Chair - Marcus Sipolt
Board Members
Phyllis Banucci Walter Cuculic Carole Eisner John Glass Wendy Godfrey
Kathy Haake Patty Jacobson Shirley Loprino Marcus Montoya Paul Paparella
Forest Highlands Association Board Liaisons Bob Bement & Jim Cooper
Emeritus Ethan Braunstein | Bob Golub | Len Huck (In Memoriam) John Rivers | Richard Russell | Mort Scult
A Letter from the Board Chair
The 2025 Forest Highlands Foundation Impact Statement is complete, and I, along with the entire Board, am excited to share our accomplishments from the past year. A dedicated group of Board members and countless volunteers made 2025 one of the Foundation’s most impactful years ever, with over $600,000 in grant requests accomplished. The Foundation just completed its 26th year and has now given back over $8 million to our Flagstaff nonprofit partners to help them complete each of their different but vital missions.
These fantastic results were accomplished by our numerous committees and the leadership of their wonderful chairs. Michelle Arena and the Development Committee put together our new giving campaign, The Champions Club, that exceeded our wildest expectations. Vickie Selzer and Patty Jacobson orchestrated a Foundation Golf Tournament that was fun, impactful, and celebrated the legacy of Denise Martinez. Wendy Godfrey led the Grants Committee in overseeing our largest giving effort ever, and the results were truly remarkable. Teri Schwab quietly worked behind the scenes to shore up our financial processes that came with becoming our own freestanding 501(c)(3). Please review each of the committee reports in this document to get a sense of how well these committees function. All of these results came on the shoulders of those who came before this group. I want to personally thank Marcus Sipolt for his continued involvement and mentoring as I navigated my first year as Chair. Ethan Braunstein continues to be a rock of support for the organization and joins many others in the Emeritus role as past Chair. Many of us know how special a community Forest Highlands is, and that only happens with great leadership. The Forest Highlands Foundation would like to thank Doug Sutter, Kim Rushing, Lynnie Bizardie, and especially Julie Sterner, who makes us look good in all Board communications. We would also like to humbly express our gratitude to Bob Bement and the entire FHGC Board, who value our contributions to the community and offer their support in so many ways. In closing, we would be remiss if we didn’t thank the most important members of our organization, the members of the Forest Highlands community. I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say this is one of the most selfless and giving communities anywhere in the country. We ask, and you respond!
I am humbled and honored to chair this organization into the 2026 campaign, and I thank you for your giving and support.
Sincerely,
Howard Nute
3
4
Forest Highlands Foundation Board Chair
Financial Report
The Foundation's only asset is cash, invested in a Money Market Fund. The Cash Statements reflect the financial activities of the Foundation for the most recent two years. Teri Schwab Treasurer Forest Highlands Foundation Board
Comments The Foundation began its second quarter-century in 2025 with its third-largest year for donations, only surpassed by the 20th and 25th anniversary years which were celebrated with Gala events. The Champions Club, discussed in greater detail in the Development Committee Summary, is the primary driver for the enhanced level of donations in a non-Gala year. The 2025 Foundation Pro- Am Golf Tournament participation was maxed as well as the net funds raised, and Investment Income also reached its highest level in 2025, while Preferred Seating Auctions were slightly lower than in 2024. Grants increased significantly in 2025 and are discussed further in the Grants Committee Report. Administrative expenses returned to traditional levels from the high in 2024, which was impacted most significantly by nonrecurring legal fees related to the 501(c)(3) formation process.
The generosity of the Forest Highlands membership continues to position the Foundation well to provide impactful financial support for the Flagstaff not-for-profit community.
4
Photos provided by Girls on the Run, The Lantern, and Camp Colton
Grants Committee Report
On behalf of the entire Forest Highlands Foundation, thank you for the meaningful impact you have made through your charitable giving. We are proud to continue our long tradition of giving back to the Flagstaff community, impacting lives in ways we could only have imagined 25 years ago! We are energized and inspired by the continued generosity and dedication of our community. Last year, the Forest Highlands Foundation awarded a record $608,105 to area nonprofits. This Impact Report highlights three organizations funded in 2025 and offers just a glimpse of the lasting value Forest Highlands brings to the broader Flagstaff community.
$608,105 AWARDED IN 2025!
Expedited Cycle ($49,000) In late January 2025, nonprofits nationwide, including those in Flagstaff, began receiving notices of federal funding cancellations and freezes. Organizations providing emergency shelter, hunger relief, mental health services, and other essential supports were forced to suspend programs and lay off staff. Even nonprofits that did not rely on federal funding reported significant ripple effects, as disruptions altered the broader philanthropic landscape and created new fundraising challenges. Several long-time Forest Highlands Foundation partners, including Flagstaff Family Food Center, Flagstaff Shelter Services, Catholic Charities, and others, felt an immediate impact. The Arizona Community Foundation of Flagstaff (ACFF) also experienced strain, observing unusually high nonprofit fund withdrawals beginning in March.
In response, ACFF launched an Expedited Grant Track on April 10, 2025, alongside its annual grant cycle, to provide rapid support to organizations grappling with federal funding cuts and delays. Recognizing the urgency and scope of the need, ACFF invited collaborative funders, including the Forest Highlands Foundation, to participate in this streamlined process. From application to funding, the entire cycle was completed in just over four weeks. The FHF Grants Committee sprang into action. Within a two- week timeframe, more than 15 grant applications were reviewed, scored, and finalized for board consideration. At the May 8 meeting, the Board unanimously approved $49,000 in grants to 10 Flagstaff organizations, each aligned with the Foundation’s mission.
Photos provided by Catholic Charities
5
6
Continued on next page
ACF Collaborative Process ($240,105, plus $2,500 to ACF) The Collaborative Grant process proceeded as usual, with the Grants Committee conducting due diligence on 79 grant proposals. Subcommittees carefully evaluated each organization’s community impact, financial health, and long-term stability. In addition, committee members conducted site visits with 7 nonprofit applicants, gaining firsthand insight into how these organizations carry out their missions. At the conclusion of this cycle, the Foundation awarded $240,105 to 46 nonprofit partners, with an additional $2,500 granted to the Arizona Community Foundation of Flagstaff. Direct Grants ($307,500) Following the Foundation’s establishment as an independent 501(c)(3) in 2024, we formalized, and continue to refine, our Direct Grant process. This approach enables the Forest Highlands Foundation to fund projects that may fall outside ACFF guidelines or address urgent needs occurring outside the ACFF grant cycle. Through this Direct Grant process, we awarded $307,500 to 11 area nonprofits, ensuring timely support for critical initiatives and emerging needs in our community. Separately, restricted contributions of $9,000 were made, bringing the grand total to $608,105!
Looking Ahead Your unwavering support of the Forest Highlands Foundation’s mission is deeply appreciated and genuinely inspiring. Strong participation in fundraising events and increased donations reflect the care, compassion, and generosity of our residents. As we look toward the next 25 years, we are excited about the opportunities ahead. We remain committed to thoughtful, effective philanthropy ensuring that every dollar donated reaches more people, supports vital services, and creates lasting change. Once again, thank you. Together, we are making the Flagstaff community a better place, one life at a time. Point of Pride
Photo provided by Girls on the Run
As we reflect on another successful year of giving, it is important to recognize the significant role the Forest Highlands Foundation plays in the Flagstaff nonprofit landscape. The Foundation is the second-largest contributor in the ACFF process, surpassed only by ACFF itself. Additionally, Forest Highlands is the only residential golf community in the area with its own charitable foundation. These accomplishments do not go unnoticed. They are frequently acknowledged by fellow funders at ACFF’s annual “horsetrading” event, by ACFF leadership, and by the nonprofit organizations we support.
6
7
Continued on next page
One recent example is the recognition bestowed upon the Forest Highlands Foundation by Northland Family Help Center (NFHC). At its annual breakfast in October, NFHC honored the Foundation with the Karen Kinne-Herman Legacy Award, recognizing a community member, group, or foundation that exemplifies commitment to NFHC’s mission through volunteerism, fundraising, and community connections. The Forest Highlands Foundation has supported NFHC for more than 13 years through the Arizona Community Foundation. Many residents may also recognize NFHC through the Recreation Department’s Adopt-A-Family holiday fundraising program. Since its launch in 2019, the program has grown from supporting one family and raising approximately $500 to assisting four families and raising nearly $20,000 in 2025!
With Special Thanks We are deeply honored to recognize Dr. Jean Brown for her many years of dedicated service to the Grants Committee. Her insight, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the Foundation’s mission have been invaluable, setting a high standard for all who serve alongside her and those who will follow. Fun fact: Jean and her husband, Greg, launched the Foundation’s long-standing tradition of providing backpacks and school supplies to kindergartners at Killip Elementary School, a legacy that continues to make a meaningful difference year after year.
Jean, your impact will be felt for years to come. You will be greatly missed, and sincerely thanked.
Wendy Godfrey Board Member Wendy Godfrey
Shirley Loprino Board Member Shirley Loprino
7
2025 Grants
9
2025 Grants (cont.)
9
2025 Grants (cont.)
Photos provided Flagstaff Shelter Services
10
Development Committee Summary
The Forest Highlands Foundation entered 2025 with a focus on long-term sustainability and expanding its philanthropic reach within the greater Flagstaff community. Following its transition to a freestanding 501(c)(3) in 2024, the Development Committee has focused on creating a "strategic roadmap" for both annual activities and sustainable donor growth. Core Objectives Mission-Driven Philanthropy: Continuing the focus on human services for at-risk populations and programs aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty for future generations. Sustainable Growth Moving beyond the success of the 25th Anniversary Gala to establish consistent, year-round funding streams. Community Engagement Encouraging member involvement through a diverse portfolio of events, including the rebranded Foundation Pro-Am Golf Tournament. The Champions Club Rollout A central pillar of the 2025 development strategy is the introduction of The Champions Club, a new donor program designed to stabilize the Foundation’s long- term impact. Purpose: The Champions Club aims to build a sustainable donor base to consistently serve the less fortunate in Flagstaff. Commitment Level: Members are invited to join by committing to a minimum $5,000 gift during the year toward the Foundation’s mission. Member Recognition & Benefits: Hosted Fine Dining: In appreciation of their leadership gift, each Champion is invited to an exclusive hosted fine dining experience. Commemorative Recognition: Members will be honored with a commemorative bronze plaque, to be permanently mounted at the Canyon Clubhouse entrance. Impact Milestones Through the work of the Development and Grants Committees, the Forest Highlands Foundation has now distributed over $8 million to Flagstaff nonprofits since 1999. In 2025 significant direct grants continued to be awarded with the Foundation granting its highest single annual year grants total with over $600k given out in the greater Flagstaff community.
11
Impact
in Action
Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona
Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona is a nonprofit housing organization, founded as the Affordable Housing Coalition in 1990 through the grassroots efforts of local citizens concerned about the lack of affordable housing in the Flagstaff community. They expanded from an advocacy organization to one that focuses on programs designed to help local residents identify and maintain safe, decent, and affordable housing. Programs include: transitional housing, low income housing, workforce housing and homeownership assistance.
2025 Grant Support: $110,000
Expedited and ACF Collaborative Grants: The Forest Highlands Foundation awarded Housing Solutions a $7,500 grant during the Expedited process and an additional $2,500 in the Collaborative process to support Sharon Manor – Empowering Survivors of Domestic Violence. Sharon Manor provides longer-term, supportive and affordable housing for survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault and their children experiencing homelessness.
Program Update: Since Sharon Manor opened in 1999, they have provided safety and trauma informed support to over 2000 domestic violence survivors experiencing homelessness.
Direct Grant: The Foundation awarded Housing Solutions $100,000 toward the purchase of the Western Hills Motel property. The property has been converted into 29 housing units, all of which will be rented to the local Flagstaff workforce, as it can serve households in the “missing middle,” those above 60% Area Median Income (AMI) who still struggle with high rental housing costs in Flagstaff. Program Update: Housing Solutions received a loan from OneAZ Credit Union, as well as the City of Flagstaff, who is giving them a no-payment, no-interest loan to help with the acquisition. They received a Certificate of Occupancy for the property in February 2026.
Photos provided by HSNA
13
12
12
Joanne’s Story Impact in Action
When Joanne came to Sharon Manor, she had no semblance of community or safety. She could only focus on day-to-day survival. However, as she leaves our program 18 months later, she has reestablished family connections, implemented specific plans for her family’s safety, and has a Section 8 voucher that will keep her stably supported for as long as she and her family need. Joanne and her two children lived with her abuser in a small home near both of their families. They would go to family dinners, school events, and community gatherings and appear as one happy family. Behind closed doors, Joanne faced extreme physical, mental, and emotional abuse. Her husband cut her off from all of her friends and restricted contact with family so it only occurred when he was present. He repeatedly used physical violence and the threat of physical violence towards her children to maintain power and control over her life. She was alone. After months of planning, Joanne saw her opportunity to leave when her husband and his friends went out one night to drink. She grabbed all her important documents, her kids’ favorite toys, hopped in the car, and never looked back. After some tumultuous time in rural parts of northern Arizona, Joanne found her way to Flagstaff and Sharon Manor. At Sharon Manor, Joanne found peace and independence in her own home. She began a stable job and enrolled her kids into a school that was within walking distance of their home. Joanne could come home every day to her own room, her own kitchen, and a lock on her door. After a few months, Joanne began to engage in case management, where a trusting relationship was built. Joanne knew she always had someone to go to for resources, to talk to and process life, and to come up with a game plan every time it was needed. Joanne came to groups and developed friendships with some of the other adults at the Manor who understood her story and her life as a single mom. Joanne’s children also attended group and loved hanging out with other children and safe adults who were there just for them. Joanne has also been able to reestablish a relationship with her mom and brother, now that her communication is not being monitored. She receives immense support from them both as she continues to navigate life. Joanne secured a Section 8 housing voucher and was recently accepted to a new, permanent apartment where she and her kids will continue forward, now with community, independence, and confidence.
In Other News
HSNA is getting close to helping their 500th household purchase a first home with direct financial assistance – down payment/closing cost assistance. They have helped 496 households to date and have their 497th household under contract for purchase. Additional families are out shopping for a home, completing homebuyer counseling, etc. Housing Solutions hopes to celebrate their 500th family by the time they host their Annual Breakfast event in May 2026!
Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona has started a land trust program meant to create long-term affordable housing in the region. The land trust model creates below-market-rate housing by maintaining ownership of the land while selling the house itself. Homeowners have a ground lease that allows for a lower price and adds some conditions for when they sell the house so it will continue to be affordable for the next residents.
14
13
Impact
in Action
Northland Family Help Center
Northland Family Help Center (NFHC) is a nonprofit organization that has provided victim services to the community for 48 years. Their mission is to provide safe haven, advocacy, counseling, and education to promote and restore healthy relationships. NFHC began as a Crisis Nursery in 1978 and has evolved to now provide a 24-hour crisis line, shelter for victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Human Trafficking, shelter for unaccompanied youth under 18 years of age, Counseling and Legal Advocacy for victims of crime, Transitional Living Program for young adults ages 18-21 years, and Community Education for sexual violence prevention.
2025 Grant Support: $8,860
Expedited and ACF Collaborative Grants: The Forest Highlands Foundation awarded Northland Family Help Center a $7,500 grant during the Expedited process and an additional $1,360 in the Collaborative process to provide safe shelter and services to individuals and families in NFHC Domestic Violence Shelter (DVS) and NFHC Youth Shelter. In the Domestic Violence Shelter, clients can stay for 120 days per state contracts. NFHC’s 15 bed Youth Shelter provides immediate response and intervention to youth homelessness and family discord. Youth stay in the program until safe housing is found which can range from days to upwards of six months.
Program Update: Clients in the Domestic Violence and Youth shelters are supported by trained professionals who are well versed in trauma informed care and provided with a homelike environment, along with one-on-one assistance to pursue goals. Clients in DVS receive case management, educational groups, trauma therapy, and legal advocacy to overcome effects of interpersonal violence. The DVS Case Manager assists clients with transportation and accessing flexible funding assistance for IDs, gas, work uniforms, medications, housing application fees, rent, and furniture. Youth Shelter clients are provided 24-hour supervision, case management, family reunification assistance, trauma therapy, and recreational programming through life skills groups, mindfulness based substance abuse prevention groups, and fun outings. Domestic violence and abuse impacts people from all demographic and cultural backgrounds. NFHC’s Domestic Violence Shelter serves women, men, and families in need of safe shelter due to fleeing abusive situation, yet only 15% of shelter clients are men. Even more rare is a father entering shelter with his children.
Northland Family Help Center’s mission is to provide safe haven, advocacy, counseling, and
education to promote and restore healthy relationships.
14
Eddie’s Story Impact in Action
“Eddie,” a single father with 3 children stayed in NFHC’s Domestic Violence Shelter after leaving an abusive partner. The family was in shelter for 4 months, receiving support, advocacy, and case management to help create a future free from abuse. While in shelter the family healed and set goals. Eddie maintained his job while adjusting to parenting 3 kids by himself. The kids loved playing with staff and would run into the staff office every day to color, talk, and just enjoy being a kid! After months of meeting with the DVS Case Manager and NFHC’s Legal Advocate, Eddie secured permanent supporting housing to move his family into their own apartment. NFHC was able to assist the family with funds to purchase furniture and household items for the new apartment. This family of 4 entered shelter after experiencing a harmful abusive environment and they left shelter on a path to healing and safety.
“We envision a community where all people live in safety, where all forms of violence have been eradicated, and where healthy families and individuals serve as the foundation of a vibrant and productive community.” Northland Family Help Center
Impact
in Action
Quality Connections
Quality Connections (QC) is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve independence, employment, and full community participation. QC operates group homes, day programs, employment services, social enterprises, and preschool, serving more than 400 families annually across Coconino County. In 2024, the State of Arizona and member guardians selected QC to assume operations of Helping Hands Agency in Page. The merger expanded QC’s services into one of the most rural areas of the county, ensuring continuity of care for more than 60 individuals in Page who otherwise would have gone without essential support.
2025 Grant Support: $33,500
ACF Collaborative Grant: The Foundation awarded Quality Connections $3,500 toward the organization’s Building Skills & Community Connections program. This program brings to life part of QC’s Learning Day program as a vibrant, café-style gathering space designed to spark connection and growth. Members build skills and community in a welcoming, accessible environment that celebrates belonging, dignity, and individuality. FHF Direct Grant: The Foundation awarded Quality Connections $30,000 toward the transition of Helping Hands agency in Page to QC Page. The grant went toward one-time, transition-related expenses, including the development and distribution of staff onboarding software and training, orientation expenses for new hires, IT system setup, facility modifications, and equipment and fleet purchases.
In Other News
QC recently launched Diverge Media, the newest addition to QC’s Adult Day Programs in Flagstaff & Page. This “reimagined online radio station” has evolved into a full media production program where members create videos, podcasts, radio shows, and more. The mission of Diverge Media is to empower voices, build skills, and connect our community through member-produced media. Diverge Media gives members the opportunity to break from the norm and broadcast what really matters: authenticity, inclusion, and expression without limits. It’s a platform with no labels and no limits, where every voice can be heard. 16
The producers of the Emmy-winning documentary series Love on the Spectrum have reached out to QC to gauge if our members were interested in participating in an upcoming season. (Spoiler alert: they are.) While the series primarily focuses on individuals on the autism spectrum, the producers are also open to considering others. QC is currently working to set up a group video call so interested members can learn more and ask questions.
17
Ryan’s Story Impact in Action
Ryan had a clear goal when he started at QC Learning: getting a job out in the community. Today, he’s been working at Fry’s, putting the skills he learned into practice every day. Ryan discovered the importance of teamwork and collaboration. “It's helping me know the different ways of how to work with others when they need help,” he explains. He’s applied these skills both at Fry’s and in one of his favorite hands-on projects at QC Learning, getting the radio room back up and running. “Pretty much the radio room and the media, that’s been really exciting to work on”.
Photos provided by Quality Connections
With Deep Appreciation
As we close this year’s chapter, we extend our sincere gratitude to three dedicated members of the Forest Highlands Foundation Board who are concluding their service:
Phyllis Banucci Walter Cuculic John Glass
Their time, leadership, and thoughtful contributions have helped shape the impact and direction of our Foundation. We are deeply grateful for the care and commitment they have shown to our mission and to the community we serve.
Thank you for the difference you have made.
19
2425 William Palmer | Flagstaff, AZ 86005 Email: Admin@FHGC-FHF.org www.fhgc.com/forest-highlands-foundation/ or scan the QR code below 501c3 | EIN Number 93-3877068
20
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20Powered by FlippingBook