Name: Tim Thomas
Profession: President of the Phoenix Police Foundation
Age: 52
What do you do for a living?
I am the president and CEO of a nonprofit organization in the Valley called the Phoenix Police Foundation. The mission of the foundation is to assist the women and men of the Phoenix Police Department. In my role, I run the business operations, including fundraising. The money we raise helps fund youth programs like the Phoenix Police Department Cadet program, support the K-9 units with new dogs and equipment, host recognition events like the Honor Walk/Run for fallen officers and the Women in Blue event. These are just a few of the ways the foundation helps the Phoenix Police Department.
What type of training do you need to do your job?
More than anything, you have to have passion to work in the nonprofit industry. I left a 22-year career in healthcare to work for the Phoenix Police Foundation. I use all the skills I learned working in healthcare to run the foundation. I also earned a degree in communications from the University of Arizona, which has helped me during my career.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
The best part of my job is helping police officers get the recognition they deserve and make sure they have all the equipment, funds, and resources they need to make our community safer.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A fighter pilot.
What advice would you give to a kid who wants to have a similar career?
My advice is to find a career that you are really interested in. Work is a lot easier and more meaningful when you have a job that you enjoy.
One fun fact NOT about your job?
I have traveled to over 36 cities outside of the United States.
