The Arizona Lottery has been a transformative force for good since its establishment in 1981, creating far more than winners with its games of chance. Behind every Scratchers ticket and Powerball play is a mission to fund vital programs and initiatives that shape the lives of Arizonans and the state’s future. Through its philanthropy and community engagement, the Lottery has become a cornerstone of hope and opportunity, contributing more than $5.6 billion to programs in higher education, health and human services, environmental conservation, and economic and business development.
This focus on giving back has been central to the Lottery’s identity. “At the heart of our mission is a deep-rooted dedication to empowering Arizona’s communities,” says Alec Thomson, executive director of the Arizona Lottery. “The programs we support are catalysts for positive change, enabling us to fund initiatives that empower vulnerable Arizonans, preserve our stunning natural landscapes, increase access to world-class education, and build a thriving economy.”
State law mandates that the Arizona Lottery funds 17 specific programs, ensuring that ticket sales contribute directly to initiatives that benefit all residents. Among these beneficiary organizations are Court Appointed Special Advocates; the Arizona Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC); and the Department of Game and Fish’s Heritage Fund. Beyond its mandated contributions, the Lottery has expanded its impact through its Gives Back program, which has provided more than $2.8 million to local nonprofits in just the past six years.
These partnerships have empowered a diverse range of initiatives. From supporting Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona’s Timber Sky Starter Home program to backing Phoenix Children’s Foundation’s Homeless Youth Outreach efforts, the Lottery’s contributions have extended far beyond financial assistance. Sarah Beaumont, M.D., medical director for the outreach program, highlights the importance of this collaboration: “This partnership is a significant step toward addressing the health needs of homeless youth in our state. Through contributions from valued partners like the Lottery, we aim to create a safe haven where children and youth can receive the support they need to overcome challenges and thrive.”
In addition to funding, the Arizona Lottery fosters deeper community engagement by encouraging employee volunteerism. Team members have participated in initiatives with organizations like the Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents and Habitat for Humanity, where they have taken part in hands-on efforts to build stronger communities. Employees also contribute through the State Employees Charitable Campaign, supporting more than 400 nonprofits in partnership with Valley of the Sun United Way.
The Arizona Lottery’s commitment to environmental conservation is another standout aspect of its work. Programs like the National Forest Foundation and the Department of Game and Fish’s Heritage Fund help protect the state’s unique landscapes and wildlife. These initiatives underscore the Lottery’s vision of creating opportunities to give while safeguarding Arizona’s natural beauty for future generations.
At the helm of the Lottery’s outreach efforts is a leadership team deeply invested in community engagement. Thomson serves on the board of Friends of Public Radio and the State Forty-Eight Foundation, while Chief Marketing Officer Chris Rogers lends his expertise to the Phoenix Children’s Foundation. Their dedication reflects the Lottery’s broader commitment to building partnerships that make a tangible difference.
Governor Katie Hobbs, a staunch supporter of the Arizona Lottery’s initiatives, encapsulates its impact: “The collaboration between Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona and the Arizona Lottery is a powerful example of how we can unite to support our neighbors. The Timber Sky Starter Home program is not just about building houses; it’s about building stronger, more resilient communities.”
The Arizona Lottery’s vision, encapsulated in its mission to create moments to dream, chances to win and opportunities to give, is realized in every dollar it transfers and every life it touches. From funding scholarships to supporting foster children, its work goes beyond immediate impact, fostering a legacy of hope and progress.
As Arizona continues to grow and evolve, the Lottery remains steadfast in its role as a driver of community empowerment and economic development. Its contributions have sparked change, uplifted the vulnerable and inspired collective action, demonstrating that a ticket to dream can also be a ticket to do good.
Giving by the Numbers
The Arizona Lottery continues to fuel vital programs across the state, supporting education, health, economic growth and conservation. From funding scholarships to improving public transit and preserving wildlife, these contributions create a lasting impact in Arizona communities.
Key Figures:
- Higher Education: $37 million
- Health & Human Services: $35.7 million
- Business & Economic Development: $14.9 million
- Environmental Conservation: $10 million
- State General Fund: $217.3 million
Did You Know: Through its philanthropy and community engagement, the Lottery has become a cornerstone of hope and opportunity, contributing more than $5.6 billion to programs in higher education, health and human services, environmental conservation, and economic and business development.
Tyler Butler, a trailblazer in ESG and corporate citizenship, has led Fortune 500 sustainability programs, contributed to two IPOs and founded Collaboration for Good. With degrees from ASU, Boston College and Cornell, she writes for top publications and serves as head of Public Affairs for Phoenix Rising FC.
