The Arizona Cardinals Football Club has distributed 100% of the $2 million raised through the inaugural Cardinals Climb that took place in February.
The funds from the event, which benefits Arizona’s special needs community, will be divided between 60 organizations across the state, a Wednesday media release said.
A significant portion is going to Barrow Neurological Foundation, Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center, Special Olympics Arizona and Treasure House.
ADVERTISEMENT
The other 56 organizations receiving funds all foster the same philosophy, advancing new and innovative programs to support those of all ages with autism. The goal is for the money to help expand services, promote inclusion and create equal opportunities to provide as many resources as possible for families navigating life with special needs, the release said.
“The inaugural year of Cardinals Climb was a tremendous success and we know it will continue growing in the years ahead,” Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill said. “The energy and joy at State Farm Stadium were truly palpable, but the most rewarding aspect is the opportunity to support so many organizations making a meaningful difference in the special needs community.”
More about the inaugural Cardinals Climb
The inaugural Cardinals Climb was a year-long fundraiser that ended with more than 3,500 people participating in a hike through State Farm Stadium, finishing at the 50-yard line on February 21.
Nearly 200 teams attended the event and there were more than 8,000 individual donations, adding up to the $2 million raised, the release said.
Douglas Santo
Douglas Santo is a digital editor for ArizonaSports and KTAR.com. Santo spent time covering Arizona State football, basketball and other sports throughout college and graduated Arizona State University in 2025. He has written for Sun Devil Daily and spent six months as the publisher. Santo has also written for Athlon Sports, The Sporting News and Pro Football Sports Network covering various NFL, MLB and college football teams.