Credit Union Account Opened for Native American Community Service Center Blaze

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Desert Schools Federal Credit Union has established an account for the public to make financial donations in the wake of an explosion and fire that damaged part of the sixth floor of the Native American Community Service Center headquarters.

The building, located at 4520 N. Central Avenue across the street from Central High School in Phoenix is co-owned by the Phoenix Indian Center, Native American Connections and Native American Community Health Center, three non-profit agencies that target services to Native Americans.

The fire occurred a week ago on the roof which houses two compressors. Center officials say there was an explosion leading to the fire. No injuries were reported.

Two years ago, the three oldest Native American non-profits in the Valley created a unique partnership to purchase the 85,000 square foot building to serve as a one-stop Native American business, cultural and social services center for at-risk urban families, elders, youth, and individuals.

Native American Connections, Inc., Native American Community Health Center, Inc. and Phoenix Indian Center, Inc. formed an LLC which owns and operates the facility.

Patti Hibbeler, CEO for the Phoenix Indian Center said, “We are still assessing the damage. All services were shut down immediately. As of now, we have electricity but it is still unclear how long it will be until the building has air conditioning.”

Effective this week, most staff was placed on administrative leave. The combined agencies are asking for the public’s help in restoring social services to the Valley’s Native families by visiting a Desert Schools branch to make a donation to the Phoenix Indian Center Account.

About Desert Schools Federal Credit Union
Desert Schools is Arizona’s largest credit union with $3 billion in assets, more than 350,000 members and 64 locations. As a not-for-profit cooperative, Desert Schools has been serving members since 1939 with stellar service, innovative products, community outreach and education. Learn more at www.desertschools.org

About the Phoenix Indian Center
The Phoenix Indian Center, Inc., was established in 1947 to serve the needs of the American Indians who came to downtown Phoenix to sell their arts and crafts or shop for their families. They needed a place to receive messages, freshen up, help find a job or socialize with other Indians. Later, the Center incorporated with the State of Arizona as a private non-profit “501(c)(3)” status. Today, the Center is the primary resource of social, economic, educational, leadership, employment and training for urban American Indians residing in Maricopa County. Learn more at www.phxindcenter.org

About Native American Community Health Center
The Community Health Center (NATIVE HEALTH) founded in 1978 provides health care, dental, medical and wellness/behavioral health services designed to not only help Native Americans address illnesses they may have, but also pursue and promote a healthier lifestyle. They also provide WIC series at two locations. Learn more at www.nativehealthphoenix.org

About Native American Connections
Native American Connections began in 1972 to provide a safe haven for Native Americans recovering from substance abuse. Over the years, it has evolved into a nationally recognized provider of affordable housing and behavioral health services. Native traditional healing, ceremonies and practices are integrated into all of its services. Learn more at www.nativeconnections.org.