Robert Sarver, Wife Donate $5 Million to Phoenix Suns Charities
The following is an official press release from the Phoenix Suns:
"PHOENIX – Phoenix Suns Charities, the philanthropic nonprofit of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, received a $5 million donation from the Penny and Robert Sarver Foundation. The gift will provide future opportunities to enhance the lives of Arizona children and families in need, specifically in the areas of education, healthcare and sports. The donation is the single-largest gift received in Phoenix Suns Charities history.
"Under Sarver’s stewardship as managing partner of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury for 19 years (2004-2023), Phoenix Suns Charities granted more than $36 million to Arizona nonprofits and community programs.
"'The last 19 years and the Sarvers’ generosity has been transformative for Arizona,' Phoenix Suns Charities Executive Director and Vice President of Social Responsibility Sarah Krahenbuhl said. 'For nearly two decades, their commitment to the community has been evident and this profound contribution illustrates their dedication to making a difference. This impactful gift will further equip Phoenix Suns Charities to support those in need and improve the lives of Arizonans for years to come.'
In 2019, Sarver led the Suns’ 'Rise Together' campaign to award $10 million to local nonprofits and city programs as part of the Suns’ partnership with the City of Phoenix. The initiative included a $2.6 million donation to fund the City of Phoenix’s Head Start program, which provides comprehensive early childhood development and support services for at-risk children and families. The Suns became the first professional sports team to assist a Head Start program.
Additionally, Sarver spearheaded a successful program called 'SunsCentral,' through which the team’s ‘adoption’ of Central High School dramatically increased the graduation rate from 66 percent to 87 percent."
