TUCSON, Ariz. — Vantage West Credit Union, in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLBank San Francisco), has secured $400,000 in Access to Housing and Economic Assistance for Development (AHEAD) Program grants for two Southern Arizona organizations. The funding includes two maximum awards of $200,000 each for Sahuarita Food Bank & Community Resource Center and Community Investment Corporation (CIC), supporting workforce development and asset preservation initiatives across the region.
The AHEAD Program provides funding for projects that advance workforce development, financial education, entrepreneurship, economic development, and other initiatives that benefit underserved communities. Grants are awarded through a competitive process, with member financial institutions applying on behalf of nonprofit and community partners.
“These awards reflect the power of collaboration and the importance of investing in organizations that are creating meaningful change in our communities,” said Jon Bruflat, Vice President of Community Impact at Vantage West Credit Union. “We’re proud to partner with Sahuarita Food Bank and CIC and grateful to FHLBank San Francisco for helping bring these resources to Southern Arizona.“
Sahuarita Food Bank & Community Resource Center
Sahuarita Food Bank & Community Resource Center received a $200,000 AHEAD grant to support workforce development programs that help individuals build skills, increase earning potential, and strengthen long-term financial stability.
“Vantage West has been an exceptional partner in our mission to grow regional prosperity and open doors for underserved communities,” said Carlos Parra, Executive Director of Sahuarita Food Bank & Community Resource Center. “Thanks to the 2026 AHEAD grant, our workforce development programs will continue helping graduates earn more and build stronger futures.“
Community Investment Corporation (CIC)
Community Investment Corporation (CIC) received a $200,000 AHEAD grant to support its CLEAR Program, which helps Southern Arizona families resolve property title issues that can threaten homeownership and generational wealth.
“For many families, buying a home or starting a business represents stability and the attainment of the American Dream,” said Danny Knee, Executive Director of Community Investment Corporation. “This AHEAD award will help CIC’s CLEAR program protect that legacy by helping Southern Arizona families resolve title issues before they lead to the loss of hard-earned assets. We are grateful for the investment of Vantage West and FHLBank San Francisco, essential partners in not only helping lift families out of poverty but ensuring they stay there.“
The AHEAD Program enables FHLBank San Francisco member institutions, including Vantage West, to support projects that address local economic development needs and expand opportunities in low-to-moderate-income communities.
Vantage West submitted the grant applications on behalf of both organizations, which were selected through this year’s highly competitive funding cycle. Together, the two projects will help create pathways to economic mobility by supporting workforce advancement, preserving family assets, and expanding opportunities for individuals and families throughout Southern Arizona.
“Securing two maximum AHEAD awards demonstrates the strength of these community organizations and the impact of the work they’re doing every day,” added Bruflat. “We’re honored to help connect funding opportunities with local partners who are improving lives and creating a stronger future for our region.“
About Vantage West Credit Union
Vantage West Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative committed to improving the lives of its members and strengthening the communities it serves. Through community partnerships, financial empowerment initiatives, and strategic investments, Vantage West helps create opportunities for individuals, families, and businesses across Arizona. Visit www.VantageWest.org to learn more.
