In Arizona, generosity is more than a value; it is a way of life. From boardrooms to classrooms, ballfields to board service, countless individuals quietly give their time, talent, and resources to strengthen the communities they call home. This Mission Monday column shines a light on those difference-makers. Each week, we spotlight a philanthropic leader or volunteer whose passion for service is creating real, lasting impact across the state. Through their stories, we explore the “why” behind their giving, the mission that fuels their commitment, and the nonprofit organizations working tirelessly to serve Arizona’s most pressing needs.
Today, we welcome Barb Kozuh, executive director of the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation, who serves on the board of directors for AZ Impact for Good (AZIFG).
What inspired you to get involved with this organization, and why has its mission remained important to you?
I became interested in being involved in AZIFG following their 2022 annual conference which highlighted the importance of collaboration between philanthropic and nonprofit organizations that can make all the difference in communities. These transformative connections can help make systemic changes across all sectors of our state. As a current board member, I still think of the importance of these connections during all our meetings and events and how these people can together make positive changes.
For those unfamiliar, can you share the core mission of the nonprofit and the community it serves here in Arizona?
The Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits + Arizona Grantmakers Forum merged in August 2022 and became AZ Impact for Good to enable more impactful collaborations among philanthropic and nonprofit leaders, positioning the nonprofit sector as a key partner with the government and business community, driving economic growth, and building an equitable Arizona where all people thrive.
AZ Impact for Good envisions a vibrant and equitable Arizona where all people and living things thrive. Its mission is to unite nonprofits and philanthropy to transform Arizona through education, advocacy, and innovation. The organization serves more than 1,000 member organizations across the state, including nonprofits, grantmakers, government agencies and businesses. AZ Impact for Good is dedicated to envisioning an Arizona where all nonprofits and philanthropic organizations are valued, empowered, and thriving, with support from grassroots efforts like Arizona Gives.
What is a program, initiative, or moment that truly captures the impact this non-profit organization is making right now?
Hopefully, you all have heard about Arizona Gives Day! Arizona Gives Day is an annual giving movement uniting nonprofits, big and small, new and established, to celebrate and increase philanthropy in Arizona through online giving. The event, powered by AZ Impact for Good, takes place the beginning of April and helps raise awareness about the critical role Arizona nonprofits play in our communities by inspiring people to give generously creating a thriving and stronger Arizona for all.
This past spring’s event raised over $3.7 million, and now there is also Arizona Gives, which is a year-round philanthropic platform and state-wide non-profit directory where users can discover vetted 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schedule donations, set up recurring gifts, and search for organizations that qualify for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit. Collectively, Arizona Gives and Arizona Gives Day have raised over $51 million for over 2,000 nonprofits since 2013.
Are there any upcoming or recent events, campaigns, or initiatives you are especially excited about?
Join AZ Impact for Good at the 2026 UNITE Conference + Transform Arizona for nonprofits and grantmakers on August 12 and 13 for two days of innovation and inspiration in the nonprofit sector. Right now, we have sponsorship, exhibitor space, and registration open here.
How do you balance your professional life with your commitment to giving back, and what advice would you offer to others who want to do the same?
I get my family involved in my volunteer work and that time together is not only meaningful to me, but has been some of the most memorable times in my daughter’s childhood.
If your philanthropic work had a theme song, what would it be and why?
Andy Grammer’s “Don’t Give Up on Me.” I feel like the opening lines of the song, “I will fight, I will fight for you. I always do until my heart is black and blue,” although he was writing it about a relationship, those lines are how I feel about the work so many nonprofit organizations do in our community. I will fight for people to get access to the healthcare, education and nutritional services they need to live healthy lives.
Outside of your work with the organization, what are three local spots that you especially love?
I am a huge fan of Din Tai Fung, Buck and Rider, and Lou Malnati’s Pizza.
