Empowering Our Community

How Volunteerism is Fueling the Non-Profit Boom in Cave Creek and Carefree

In 2025, Cave Creek and Carefree saw major changes as local organizations responded to a surge in service needs. What started as basic  support has become a strong community movement.

Here's how that's happening:

• Non-emergency medical transportation is up 275%. Seniors and people with chronic conditions rely on safe rides to essential appointments.
• Meal delivery services have doubled. For many, these hot meals are their main source of daily nutrition.
• Senior wellness visits have also doubled. With isolation on the rise, more check-ins and companionship are needed than ever.
• Food insecurity has surged. As living costs climb and federal support shrinks, local food banks are stepping in to fill the gap.

These numbers are more than statistics—they represent lives impacted  and opportunities to help.

Kiwanis Marketplace: A Community Powerhouse

At the heart of this transformation is the Kiwanis Marketplace. Now serving over 1,100 shoppers a day, it broke records on March 23, 2025, with more than 2,000 visitors. But the real story is what happens behind the scenes:

Thanks to community support, Kiwanis Marketplace has distributed $1.2 million to local nonprofits serving children and families. Those dollars fund real change—after-school programs, food support, transportation, senior care, and more.

Your Chance to Step In

With growth comes need—and a special event this year is making it easy to get involved.

One Location. Every Local Non-Profit. Endless Possibilities.

You’ll be able to:

• Meet representatives from the Cave Creek and Carefree nonprofits
• Hear their needs and time commitments
• Find the perfect fit for your schedule and interests
• Choose a cause that speaks to your heart—whether that’s seniors, kids, health, food, or education

This isn’t just a volunteer fair. It’s a hands-on launchpad for your journey into service.

Perks of Participation

To make things easy and enjoyable, here’s what’s included:

• Free lunch for all attendees by Stumblinas Cantina in Cave Creek.
• On-the-spot signups and volunteer generic requirements including fingerprinting, background checks, and CPR certification
• A special class: “Identifying Senior Challenges” to help volunteers understand the unique needs of aging adults in our area

Everyone Has a Role

There’s no one-size-fits-all way to give back. Whether you want to deliver meals, drive someone to a doctor’s appointment, help at a thrift store, or offer companionship to a senior, there’s a place for you. All skill levels, ages, and time commitments are welcome.

Why Now?

Because the need has never been greater—and the impact you can make has never been more immediate. When you volunteer, you:

• Help people in crisis
• Build meaningful relationships
• Gain new skills
• Strengthen your community

Be the Change in 2025

Let 2025 be the year you say “yes” to making a difference. This is your chance to help build a stronger, more connected community—one act of service at a time.

Join us, share a meal, and find your place in this movement of hope and action.