The Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation announced the appointment of Amber Cordoba as its new Executive Director, effective July 20, 2026. Cordoba, an accomplished nonprofit leader with more than 20 years of leadership experience and a lifelong commitment to Arizona’s foster care community, was selected by AFFCF’s Board of Directors following a comprehensive search to lead the organization into its next chapter. She succeeds Luis De La Cruz, who has served as AFFCF’s President and CEO since 2022.
“Amber’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for AFFCF,” said John Keane, chair of the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation Board of Directors. “Her extensive leadership experience, passion for serving children and families, and firsthand understanding of the foster care system make her the ideal person to lead our organization into its next chapter. We are confident she will build on AFFCF’s strong foundation while expanding opportunities for the children, youth and young adults we serve.”
Cordoba brings more than two decades of leadership experience, including over a decade in the nonprofit sector, where she has led organizational growth, strengthened strategic partnerships and expanded fundraising efforts. She has successfully secured grants and sponsorships, managed multi-million-dollar operating budgets and guided mission-driven organizations through periods of growth and transformation. Her leadership is rooted in collaboration and a commitment to helping organizations and the people they serve reach their full potential.
In addition to her executive leadership experience, Cordoba brings a deeply personal connection to AFFCF’s mission. As a former licensed foster parent, state-appointed Foster Care Review Board member and family support worker serving families involved with Arizona’s Department of Child Safety, she has firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities within the foster care system. This combination of professional expertise and lived experience uniquely positions her to lead AFFCF as it continues expanding its impact across Arizona.
“This mission is deeply aligned with both my professional experience and my personal journey, and I couldn’t be more excited to work alongside this passionate community to create opportunities for children, youth and young adults navigating foster care,” Cordoba said. “I’m honored to build on the Foundation’s incredible legacy and look forward to all that we’ll accomplish together.”
Under Cordoba’s leadership, AFFCF will continue its mission of creating opportunities to build self-esteem and empower children, youth and young adults impacted by foster care through funding for childhood activities, education, career development and other life-changing support.
“Serving the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” said outgoing president and CEO of the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation Luis De La Cruz. “Having once been a youth who benefited from AFFCF, getting to lead and grow it is especially meaningful. I am proud of all we’ve accomplished together, and I am excited to see Amber continue to lead the organization forward.”
