1st Annual Hope Blooms Brunch: Distinguished Alumna Award – Stefanie Nader

In recognition of her personal and professional accomplishments, as well as her ongoing work to make a difference in the community, this award is presented to Stefanie Nader. As a Live & Learn client, Ms. Nader overcame daunting obstacles to reach financial self-sufficiency and stability for herself and her family. That was only the beginning. She earned a Masters Degree in Addiction Counseling and Mental Health and Wellness from Grand Canyon University, then pursued a Doctorate Degree in Organizational and Industrial Psychology. Currently, Ms. Nader works for the Landlord Tenant and VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) with the City of

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1st Annual Hope Blooms Brunch: Community Ally Award – Daniel Sciortino

In appreciation of his ongoing commitment and dedication to Live & Learn, this award is presented to Daniel Sciortino. Mr. Sciortino works in Consumer, Small Business, and Wealth Management Client Care at Bank of America. He serves as the Phoenix Market Chair for Bank of America Community Volunteers and Better Money Habits Champions. With the Office of the Market President, Mr. Sciortino helps to determine the biggest needs in the Phoenix community and identify local nonprofits addressing those needs. For the past six years, Mr. Sciortino has received recognition for volunteering over 1,000 hours annually. In the midst of the

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1st Annual Hope Blooms Brunch: Lifetime Service Award – Meri Friedman

For her long-term commitment to Live & Learn and in appreciation of her years of service in our community, this award is presented to Meri Friedman. Ms. Friedman is a retired photographer who has spent her life in service to others. Through her generosity with her time, talents, and resources, Ms. Friedman has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless Arizonans, especially women and mothers. She has volunteered for organizations including Jewish Family Services, Volunteer Aid, and Live & Learn. She has served on the Foster Care Review Board for over a decade. She has mentored foster care

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4 Reasons We All Benefit when Women Are Empowered

Itโ€™s International Womenโ€™s Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of empowered women! The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender equality. This is an issue important to everyone. The role women play in their communities has a massive impact on economic development, poverty rates, and sustainable development. One woman earning a promotion, landing an interview, becoming a homeowner is changing the trajectory of her family for generations. She is also improving her community in big ways. Like Sara, whose progress towards a better life is transforming her child’s future. At Live

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