On March 23, the Desert Financial Foundation hosted its annual Charity Golf Tournament at Talking Stick Golf Club in Scottsdale, bringing together 38 teams, professional golfers, and a community committed to supporting children at Phoenix Children’s. Since its founding in 1999, the tournament has raised over $8 million to fund educational programs for young patients, helping them stay academically engaged while undergoing medical care.
“We are proud to continue supporting this life-changing program and grateful to the teams, professional players, and sponsors who helped make this tournament possible,” said Ron Amstutz, tournament director and executive vice president of Desert Financial. “Their support helps ensure children at Phoenix Children’s can continue learning and feeling a sense of normalcy during treatment.”
A fully accredited K-12 program, 1 Darn Cool School provides both classroom and bedside instruction, delivering nearly 11,000 patient education sessions in 2025 alone. For children like 12-year-old Molly, the program has been a lifeline. After a sports injury revealed a rare form of bone cancer, osteosarcoma, Molly faced surgery and 24 rounds of chemotherapy. Amid the fear and uncertainty, she found comfort in routines and the support of doctors, nurses, teachers, and mental health providers who guided her through treatment.
“I think hope is important to hold onto in hard times,” Molly said. “Everybody needs hope.”
The 2026 tournament raised $730,000, adding to the $14.6 million Desert Financial Foundation, Desert Financial, and its team members have contributed to 1 Darn Cool School over the past 29 years, including $1.425 million in 2025 alone. “Desert Financial has been an incredible partner in supporting the educational and emotional well-being of our patients,” said Tim Harrison, VP of Corporate Partnerships & Special Events. “Their continued generosity helps us provide critical academic support that empowers children to keep learning, dreaming, and thriving throughout their treatment.”
Through community engagement, professional partnerships, and enduring commitment, the Desert Financial Foundation tournament continues to transform lives, proving that hope, education, and care can flourish even in the most challenging circumstances. Learn more at desertfinancial.com.
