Arizona Youth Impact Program: A Summer of Discovery and Dreams

The Arizona Youth Impact Program at the University of Arizona was nothing short of extraordinary. Over the course of two transformative weeks, our boys and girls embraced new challenges, built lasting connections, and—most importantly—discovered the power of their own potential.

This summer, we dared to do something different—and it paid off. Our boys dove into an ambitious STEM challenge: designing, constructing, and testing their own zipline systems, inspired by a real-world zipline experience at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. Our girls led a high-level surveillance balloon initiative, navigating technical obstacles with creativity, collaboration, and confidence. These hands-on projects weren’t just about science and engineering—they were about learning to think critically, solve problems, and believe in their ability to create something meaningful.

But the growth didn’t stop in the classroom. On the athletic fields, our dreamers trained hard in football and volleyball alongside University of Arizona student-athletes. These pairings went beyond drills and playbooks—mentorships were formed, stories were shared, and mutual respect blossomed. By the final day, it was clear: no one wanted the experience to end.

The closing ceremony was a powerful reminder of why we do this work. The children took the stage to share their dreams—some newly discovered, others reaffirmed—with pride and clarity. They spoke not just about what they want to do, but who they want to become. It was inspiring, emotional, and deeply affirming.

This program is designed to show our youth that they don’t have to choose between passions—they can be both athletes and engineers, teammates and leaders, dreamers and doers. And this summer, they proved that those dreams are not only possible—they’re already in motion.

To our Arizona graduates: your courage, commitment, and curiosity lit up every field and classroom. You are ready for what comes next—and we can’t wait to see where your dreams take you.

DREAM BIG. Then dream even bigger.