Two standouts in Scottsdale are today sitting a little taller after receiving the city's top honors for their contributions to the community. The Spirit of Scottsdale awards, doled out annually since 2019, found their 2023 heroes in one Matthew Patzlaff and the volunteer-run nonprofit Neighbors Helping Neighbors.
Patzlaff, the principal at Navajo Elementary, has been picked to receive the Individual Award for his unwavering commitment to his students. It was reported by the Scottsdale government's official news site that Patzlaff has notably gone above and beyond, "playing sports with the kids or securing grants to support their well-being." His efforts aren't just seen by his students but felt strongly by a community that he's profoundly impacted. The Neighbors Helping Neighbors organization has equally earned its accolades, tirelessly working to directly funnel every donated dollar into programs supporting local children, veterans, and low-income families in Scottsdale.
The 2023 Spirit of Scottsdale Organization Award went to an outfit described as nothing short of a lifeline by Scottsdale's news release. Neighbors Helping Neighbors began serving Scottsdale's locals in need a decade ago and has refused to slow down since. This year, they were recognized for their dedication and the tangible difference they continue to make without using a single cent for overhead.
The selection process for the Spirit of Scottsdale wasn't taken lightly, with the Neighborhood Advisory Commission sifting through 17 nominations before landing on this year's winners. The winning individuals and organizations were honored at the Scottsdale City Council meeting on Tuesday, March 19, proving once again that a spirit of giving and leadership can truly shine within a community. As relayed by the official city news outlet, the nomination period for the 2024 Spirit of Scottsdale Awards is scheduled to open in May, setting the stage for another round of accolades for those who strive to make a difference.
