Welcome to The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona

The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona (TRVFA) is a non-profit organization under IRS Code 501(c)(3) whose purpose is to assist those people who qualify under Arizona law to obtain financial assistance to further their vocational studies. TRVFA is an organization which meets Arizona’s Credit For Contributions To A Qualifying Charitable Organization requirements. Our QCO Code is 20698.

Candidates who meet the eligibility requirements are identified and recommended to TRVFA by financial aid counselors in vocational education institutions. and/or Rotarians and their clubs.

Mailing Address: TRVFA, P O Box 14412, Scottsdale, AZ 85267

The Essence of Why We Exist

The mission of The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona, Inc. (TRVFA) is to partner with Rotary Clubs to provide assistance to Qualified Candidates in obtaining education, training, and skill development so they may, in turn, attain career oriented employment and financial stability and contribute to their communities.

Our vision is for students go on to become productive citizens in our state. The education they obtain will help them earn a living and raise their families. Because of their increased earning potential they help grow the economy of the state of Arizona.

Check out our video to learn more about us...

Click on the image to view an informational video about The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona.

Traffic Control in the Vocational Grant Business

One of the signs of progress in a small town used to be the necessity of putting up a stop sign because traffic was getting out of control. The traffic sign was actually a sign that the town was thriving and progressing.

The board of directors of The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona has faced a similar challenge in the traffic of grant applications this fiscal year. We have faced a steady flow of new grant applications. The board is happy to report that donations to date this fiscal year are 125% of the same period a year ago. The board had to look at where we were and decide how we could ensure doing the most good while causing the least harm.

We took a look at grants already funded in the 2018-19 fiscal year. We combined that number with grants already approved, but not yet funded. To that combined total, we added grants already in process and likely to be approved for programs starting before July 1. It became clear we will meet, and very likely exceed, our recently increased grant funding budget for this fiscal year.

Our stop sign has been installed. Effective April 16, we will not accept new grant applications for programs starting before July 1, 2019. We will continue to accept new applications for programs with a start date of July 1 or later. If we receive a new grant application for a program starting before July 1, the applicant will be given the option of requesting funds for a program with a later start date.

TRVFA Earns GuideStar 2019 Gold Seal

The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona was recently recognized for our transparency with a 2019 Gold Seal on our GuideStar Nonprofit Profile! GuideStar is the world’s largest source of information on nonprofit organizations. More than 8 million visitors per year and a network of 200+ partners use GuideStar data to grow support for nonprofits. In order to get the 2019 Gold Seal, TRVFA shared important information with the public using our profile on www.guidestar.org. Now our community members and potential donors can find in-depth information about our goals, strategies, capabilities, and progress. We’re shining a spotlight on the difference we help make in the world. CLICK HERE or on the image to check out our GuideStar Nonprofit Profile.

Greg Podd Encourages Support of TRVFA

Who better than a CPA and dedicated Rotary leader to explain how supporting TRVFA is "beneficial to all concerned." Following is an excerpt from his letter sent to all Arizona Rotarians in December, 2018:

"I would like to bring to your attention a very special opportunity to not only make a substantial difference in the life of an individual and their family right here in Arizona, but take a full credit on your Arizona Income Tax Return for the year ending December 31, 2018 for the contribution!

"In 1990, the Rotary Districts in Arizona established The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona, Inc. a 501(c)3 organization established for the sole purpose of partnering with Rotary Clubs and their members to aid qualified candidates in obtaining education, training, and skill development so they may, in turn, attain career-oriented employment, financial stability, and contribute to their communities.

"Last year only 7.2% (267 out of approximately 3,700) of all Rotarians) in the State of Arizona took advantage of this incredible opportunity! By making a charitable donation to The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona by April 15, 2019 you will be allowed to take a full credit (up to $400.00 for single filers and up to $800.00 for married couples filing jointly) on your Arizona Income Tax Return. Your contribution simply allows you to serve others—at no additional cost to you."

Greg is an advisor to the TRVFA Board of Directors. He served as Rotary International Vice President 2015-16, Rotary International Director 2014-15, and as District Governor in Arizona District 5510 in 2003-04.

To donate on-line, go to donate.trvfa.org. To donate by mail, CLICK HERE to download a donation form.

Sarah sent TRVFA an appreciative update

Hi! My name is Sarah and you all helped me get my Certified Nursing Assistant license and my Patient Care Technician certification. I really appreciate everything you all have done for me.

I got a job as soon as I graduated. I have now been working in the hospital for three and a half years.

I will be going back to school soon to get my RN.

Sarah is a 2014/15 graduate of East Valley Medical College in their Certified Nursing Assistant/Patient Care Technician program. Gilbert Rotary Club sponsored her TRVFA grant application.

Message from Misha,
a happy TRVFA grant recipient

The Estrella Rotary Club recently received the following note from Misha, whose TRVFA grant was sponsored by their club"

“School has been amazing! I finished my program at the top of my class with a 98% and am currently continuing my studying to take my state RHS certification test! With the help of my teachers, I was able to work with a number of different dentists, shadow an oral maxillofacial surgeon and have an internship lined up to begin on October 2nd! I am so excited to be moving into this next phase of my career, and it wouldn’t be possible without the help of you and your organization’s funding!”

Antonio's Message of Appreciation

I just wanted to say thank you so much for everything. For all your assistance and guidance in applying for and for going through all the steps with me to receive this grant. You've provided me with life changing help that I can never repay. I can now concentrate on my grades and not how I will pay for my schooling.

I will not let you down and you will not regret this help you have provided for me. TRVFA is truly a great program. Once again thank you.

Your Donation Can Help Make a Difference