TEMPE, AZ — A longtime community leader and founder of a Tempe nonprofit was recognized Wednesday for her role in helping thousands of families.
In 1966, Lupe Esquer and Barbara Norton wanted to help elderly and low-income people in Tempe. So, they created an organization that developed into the Tempe Community Action Agency.
All these years later, their mission remains and is going strong.
On Wednesday, city and nonprofit leaders honored Esquer's legacy.
"She didn't serve the people for recognition. It was just something she loved to do. Serving people was what made her get up every day," said Eugene Esquer.
Lupe was known for helping others. She started the organization in a church.
"It's wonderful to see what it's grown into. My mom would've loved it. It was what she lived for," said Eugene.
Now, the TCAA serves 28,000 adults and children each year. The nonprofit provides housing, financial and health services to families in need.
"That we're here 54 years later and now Tempe's largest social service agency --just goes to reaffirming that the commitment that Barbara and Lupe had many years ago is still true today," said CEO Deborah Arteaga.
They also have a food pantry, providing bags of food to families daily.
The TCAA relies on financial support and donations. Learn more about the nonprofit or how you can help here.
