AZFirst

We're eliminating the word "can't." Today's slogan is: "We can."

At AZFirst, we are committed to making a real, lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families in our community. As we continue to serve Arizona’s STEM populations, we need your support more than ever. 

Our mission is simple: to provide critical resources, support, and opportunities for those who need it most. From youth mentorship and educational programs to teacher stipends and rookie grants, AZFirst is dedicated to creating pathways for a better future for everyone in Arizona. We can do this with YOU. 

Your donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward supporting the people and programs that are transforming lives in Arizona. Together, we can strengthen our communities, foster hope, and create lasting change. 

Ways to Give:

1. Make a One-Time Donation or become a Monthly Donor through AZ Gives
2. Spread the Word: Share our cause with your network and encourage others to get involved. 

We are so grateful for your continued support, and we’re excited to have you as part of the AZFirst family. Every dollar counts, and with your help, we can continue to make Arizona a place where everyone can thrive. 

Thank you for your generosity and commitment to building a better future for Arizona. 

Rich Simoncic
President, AZFirst
rich.simoncic@microchip.com
www.azfirst.info 

Recent and Upcoming Events
AZFirst had two FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC) regionals as part of the high school level of FIRST. Under strict rules and limited time and resources, teams of high school students are challenged to build industrial-size robots to play a difficult field game in alliance with other teams, while also fundraising to meet their goals, designing a team “brand,” and advancing respect and appreciation for STEM within the local community.

FIRST® Robotics Competition gives high school students and their adult mentors the opportunity to work and create together to solve a common problem. Teams of students are challenged to design, build, and program robots and compete for awards, while they also create a team identity, raise funds, hone teamwork skills, and advance respect and appreciation for STEM within the local community.

Both events were streamed on our twitch channel: https://www.twitch.tv/azfirststream. Click the links below for more information on teams competing, match results and awards.

1. AZ North in Flagstaff, AZ: March 14-15 (watch recorded matches)
2. AZ East in Tempe, AZ: March 21-22 (watch recorded matches)

AZFirst also supports the National Underwater Robotics Challenge (NURC), in partnership with the Si Se Puede Foundation. NURC is an underwater remotely operated vehicle competition that emphasizes real-world hands-on activities that motivate students to take on tough challenges in a fun and exciting way. Teams compete in one of four categories: Pre-High School, High School, University, and Adult. The goal of the various levels is to encourage vertical articulation, or collaboration and communication, between the levels to stimulate the teams to be the best they can be. Teams can choose from several levels of kits to build their ROV or build one on their own. The event is webcast live and takes place at night to simulate the dark depths of the ocean!

1. Prehistoric Plunge in Mesa, AZ: June 6-8