Desert Financial Foundation and Desert Financial Credit Union announced a $1.425 million donation to 1 Darn Cool School at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, reinforcing their ongoing commitment to supporting educational continuity for children undergoing medical treatment.
The fully accredited K-12 program delivers bedside and classroom instruction to school-aged patients, both inpatient and outpatient. Each year, more than 2,000 children benefit from the program, which helps them maintain academic progress, structure, and a sense of normalcy during hospital stays.
Bringing Education to Patients
Justin Ramirez, diagnosed with leukemia at age 13, exemplifies the impact of the program. Since beginning treatment in November 2024, Ramirez continued his schooling through hospital visits and bedside instruction, ultimately earning credits to transition from eighth grade to high school in January 2026.
“They helped me with my school credits,” Ramirez said. “They would first focus on my schoolwork, and if I needed help, they were always there.”
Teachers like Lydia Smith work closely with patients and coordinate with home schools, adapting lessons to ensure children remain engaged academically despite treatment interruptions.
“1 Darn Cool School brings a sense of normalcy into a not-so-normal time for patients,” Smith said. “We are able to be the bridge between school and hospital and ensure that patients are still engaged with their education.”
A Strong Commitment to Education
The $1.425 million donation is part of a five-year, $5 million commitment announced in 2024. With this year’s gift, Desert Financial has reached 70% of its fundraising goal in just two years.
“As a credit union founded by teachers, education is part of who we are,” said Ron Amstutz, Executive Vice President at Desert Financial. “This commitment ensures children receiving care at Phoenix Children’s can continue learning, stay connected to their peers and focus on their future, even during the hardest moments of their young lives.”
Tim Harrison, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at Phoenix Children’s, added:
“Desert Financial Credit Union’s generosity continues to open doors of possibility for the children and families we serve. Their commitment ensures every patient can stay connected to their education and their future.”
About 1 Darn Cool School
1 Darn Cool School is a fully accredited K-12 program providing bedside and classroom instruction for patients at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The program employs eight full-time, master’s level teachers and aims to keep students on grade level, helping them reintegrate into their home schools once treatment allows.
About Desert Financial Foundation
Founded in 2015, Desert Financial Foundation supports organizations and individuals in Arizona to strengthen financial capability through education and scholarships. More information: DesertFinancial.com/Foundation
About Desert Financial Credit Union
Serving Arizona for over 85 years, Desert Financial Credit Union manages over $9 billion in assets, with more than 500,000 members and 50 branches. As a not-for-profit cooperative, Desert Financial shares success with members, distributing $16 million in dividends in 2025 through its Member Giveback Bonus. Federally insured by NCUA. More information: desertfinancial.com
Forward-looking information is subject to risks and uncertainties. Read full DISCLAIMER.
