For over 40 years, the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF) has been defined by a single, unwavering mission: to provide the children in our state’s foster care system with the resources, opportunities, and childhood experiences they deserve. Today, we are sharing an update regarding our leadership and our continued commitment to the children and youth we serve.
Our President and CEO, Luis De La Cruz, will step down on August 31, 2026. This announcement comes as part of a thoughtful, planned transition process to provide the Board of Directors ample time to ensure a seamless leadership handoff that maintains the momentum of our vital programs.
While leadership will change, the life-changing impact of AFFCF remains constant. Our mission is powered by a dedicated team, a passionate Board, and a community of supporters like you. Because of this collective strength, AFFCF continues to expand its reach:
- Empowering Futures: Through our Keys to Success program, we are providing hundreds of aging-out youth with the career coaching and life skills necessary to transition into adulthood with confidence.
- Opening Doors to Education: Initiatives like the Kiita Scholarship and the Focus Forward Fund ensure that a foster care background is never a barrier to higher education or vocational dreams.
- Creating Moments of Joy: Every day, we continue to fund enriching activities—from music lessons and sports equipment to summer camps—that allow children in care to simply be kids.
“Serving AFFCF has been the honor of a lifetime,” Luis shared. “Having achieved the major milestones we set out to conquer, I have total confidence in the brilliant team carrying this mission forward. I look forward to supporting AFFCF’s growth in new ways as the organization enters its next chapter.”
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we extend our sincere gratitude to Luis for his leadership and dedication to the youth and families we serve,” John Keane, Board Chair, states. “AFFCF has always been resilient, mission-driven, and community-centered. We remain fully committed to the organization’s future and to building on the strong foundation that supports youth impacted by foster care across Arizona.”
The Board of Directors has formed a committee to lead a comprehensive search for a successor who embodies our values and shares our vision for Arizona’s children. During this period, Luis remains fully at the helm to ensure that our programs and community partnerships continue without interruption.
Your investment in AFFCF has always been an investment in the resilience and potential of children in foster care. We are more dedicated than ever to ensuring that every child we serve has the foundation they need to succeed, both today and long into the future.
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership as we celebrate our progress and look toward a bright next chapter.
Warm regards,
The AFFCF Board of Directors & Staff