Cox Charities recently announced its selection of 111 Arizona nonprofit organizations to receive nearly $560,000 in grant funding.

Most of the funds awarded came from the donations of Cox’s 3,100 Arizona employees. Since the program’s inception in 1996, Cox Charities has awarded approximately $8.5 million to local Arizona nonprofits that support youth and education. Click here to watch grant recipients receive their funds.

The Dysart Education Foundation was one of the grant recipients. Grants ranged from $2,500 to $10,000.

“Cox employees are deeply embedded in the communities we serve in Arizona and now more than ever, are committed to supporting and volunteering to make a difference,” said John Wolfe, senior vice president and southwest region manager for Cox Communications. “We are proud to stand behind so many nonprofit partners that are working hard during this challenging time to educate children and support families throughout Arizona.”

Astrid Valencia is just one of the Cox employees who are behind the donations to these Arizona non-profits.

“It’s quite a feeling to know that my company empowers us to give in a way that makes such a meaningful difference to such worthy nonprofits throughout Arizona,” Ms. Valencia said in a news release. “Through Cox Charities, we help ensure that our youth get the educational services they need and don’t fall through the cracks. That makes me extremely proud.”