CEO Howard Schwartz, along with the HDS Phoenix team of Stephanie Canter, Bob Nanberg and Scott Nash had the privilege of attending the Phoenix Suns Charities Jump Ball Gala on Saturday March 2, 2013. The gala, which was held at Talking Stick Resort, was headlined by comedian Frank Caliendo and Grammy-Award winners the Pointer Sisters, as well as featured appearances by Suns legends Kevin Johnson and Charles Barkley. HDS’ own Bob Nanberg, who serves on the board, organized all of the auction items. The silent auction raised $69,000 from items that included player signed merchandise, designer handbags and original artwork. The live auction raised $79,000 from items that included a trip with the team to an upcoming road game and an all-expenses paid trip to the 2014 All-Star game. The entire event raised $1.3 million.
This year’s event marked the 25th anniversary of the organization. The foundation was started by former Phoenix Suns Chairman and CEO Jerry Colangelo with the mission to help organizations that assist the needs of children throughout Arizona. Since its inception, Phoenix Suns Charities has continued to grow and now gives more than a million dollars annually to hundreds of local charities.