History

The MVP Foundation was established in 2011 by a group of Phoenix business leaders who were concerned by the lack of positive role models provided to inner city 6th, 7th, and 8th grade boys. We believe that instilling the foundations of leadership in these young men will help open doors to new opportunities.

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Many of these boys have never traveled outside of Maricopa County; thus, the MVP Leadership Academy was born. This non-denominational annual retreat takes place at the Young Life Camp in the mountains of Williams, Arizona. For three days during the spring, Young Life volunteers and MVP directors and board members run programs designed to teach camp-goers leadership skills and the importance of teamwork through sports clinics, group activities, and counselor-led quality time.

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Since its inception, over 2,500 boys have attended our Leadership Academy. It costs approximately $350 per camper to provide a three-day experience that includes bus transportation, lodging, meal, snacks, programming, and entertainment. While the majority of our funding is provided by our Board of Directors, we also receive support from outside grants and donations.