OUR STORY
It Started With a Simple Need
In 1997, six women who lived in SaddleBrooke learned that students in nearby Copper Corridor communities were missing school because they had to share shoes and clothing with their siblings. Moved to action, these women created a modest clothing bank with thrift store and wholesale purchases of shoes and clothing. Supported by fundraisers, their efforts soon grew to include holiday gift baskets and food drives, and SaddleBrooke Women’s Outreach was born.
1997: The Beginning
Six SaddleBrooke women saw a need and took action. They launched a clothing bank to help local children with basic needs and quickly grew their efforts to include holiday gift baskets and food drives. SaddleBrooke Women’s Outreach was born.
1999: Growing Need, Growing Impact
With the closure of the San Manuel copper mine in 1999, unemployment soared, increasing the need for support. The organization, now known as SaddleBrooke Community Outreach, responded with increased efforts and programming. To support these efforts, an innovative funding partnership was established with IMPACT of Southern Arizona whereby proceeds from the Golden Goose Thrift Shop are split evenly between the two nonprofits.
Now: For a brighter future
Today, SBCO continues the commitment to improve the lives of children and families in the former mining towns that form the “Copper Corridor.” In addition to programs that FEED and CLOTHE, we offer grants to schools and community organizations that ENRICH lives with educational and recreational programming for children and youth. Finally, we help EDUCATE through multi-year scholarships for post-high school education and training that can break the cycle of poverty.
How we make an impact
Powered by Volunteers
These efforts are made possible through the generosity of our volunteers. In fact, as a completely volunteer-run organization, almost all financial resources directly benefit our neighbors in these rural towns. Our model is efficient, effective and rewarding, and grounded in the belief that whatever we can do to create opportunities for kids to succeed is an investment in the future.
Investing in the future
We believe every child deserves the chance to succeed. Together, we are building stronger communities and brighter futures across the Copper Corridor—one child, one family, and one opportunity at a time.
