Organized as the Tonto Cares Valentine’s Day Gala, more than 100 people turned out for a fundraising event to benefit the VerdeCares on Feb. 14.

Ken Holec organized a committee and volunteers that made the Tonto Cares event possible. Comedian Mark Cordes provided entertainment and lots of laughs. The Chef Chris designed menu was delicious and the silent and live auctions brought excitement for everyone.

“We sincerely appreciate our communities and events like the Tonto Gala which recognizes VerdeCares as a local charity that exists for the Verdes and because of the Verde community support,” said Vicki Beseke, founder/director of VerdeCares.

In 2024, VerdeCares assisted 585 neighbors, delivered 1,435 meals and drove 33,023 miles transporting neighbors to medical appointments.  The 911 partnership with the Rio Verde Fire District helps neighbors prepare for a medical emergency. The care management program hospital-to-home services provides follow-through support to reduce repeat 911 calls and repeat hospitalizations.

VerdeCares is certified to provide confidential care and support to dementia caregivers during monthly meetings.  Support group meetings encourage members to share information, give and receive mutual support and exchange coping skills with one another. Support group members share practical suggestions for caring based on their caregiving experiences. VerdeCares can refer in-home caregivers and other resources as needed.

“If you are a caregiver, of an Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s loved one, we welcome you to attend our meetings,” Beseke said. “Our next meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m., Tuesday, March 4, at the VerdeCares office.

Aging-in-Place Speaker Series

Coming soon to all Verde communities is the VerdeCares Aging-in-Place educational event.  The Tonto Verde event is set for 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 12, in the Acacia Ballroom.  VerdeCares will share tips for aging in place.  Those attending will learn how to plan for now and future needs, which can assist with maintaining independence at home.  Pre-registration is required.

Donations tax benefits

VerdeCares is an IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit charity and an Arizona Qualifying Charitable Organization (QCO) with the QCO code: 22644. The Arizona Charitable Tax Credit program provides a dollar-for-dollar tax credit on your Arizona state income tax, allowing for contributions of up to $470 for individual filers and $938 for joint filers.

The State of Arizona allows taxpayers to claim tax credits for gifts into April of the current year for the prior tax year. The deadline for making a charitable contribution for the 2024 tax year under the AZ Charitable Tax Credit is April 15, 2025.

“You can make a difference in a neighbor’s life and your own by volunteering to help a neighbor in need,” Beseke said. “For more information about volunteering and the services and resources available to you, please contact your VerdeCares Office at 480-471-8944.” 

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